Roger Federer's return to US Open sparks excitement among fans
What's the story
Tennis legend Roger Federer made an emphatic appearance at the 2024 US Open on September 3, sparking excitement among fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
This marked his first appearance at the iconic venue since retiring from professional tennis in 2022.
The Swiss maestro was warmly welcomed by an ecstatic crowd during the quarter-final match between Aryna Sabalenka and Qinwen Zheng.
Notably, Federer has won five US Open titles.
Emotional comeback
Federer's US Open return stirs nostalgia
Federer's return to the stadium, where he played several memorable and momentous matches, evoked a deep sense of nostalgia among fans and players.
Adding to the star-studded atmosphere, Federer was spotted talking to NBA star Stephen Curry in the stands.
"It's going to be also nice to be in Ashe, you know, watching tennis from the sidelines this time," Federer stated in an interview outside the stands.
Twitter Post
WATCH: GOAT Federer in attendance at Arthur Ashe Stadium
Welcome back, legend!
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 4, 2024
Great to have you in Arthur Ashe Stadium, @rogerfederer! pic.twitter.com/209TJGrf0l
Numbers
Federer owns 20 Grand Slam titles
Federer is among the all-time greats in tennis. He claimed 103 ATP singles titles, including 20 Grand Slam titles, in a career spanning over two decades.
He held the ATP world number one singles ranking for 310 weeks, including a record-breaking 237 consecutive weeks.
The Swiss player owns a record eight men's singles Wimbledon titles.
Additionally, he boasts an Olympic gold medal in men's doubles, which he won in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Historic match
Sabalenka's record-equaling semi-final appearance at US Open
The match Federer attended was a historic one, with Sabalenka securing her fourth consecutive semi-final spot at the US Open by defeating Zheng 6-1, 6-2.
Sabalenka became the first female since Serena Williams to reach four consecutive US Open semi-finals.
Throughout the match, she displayed exceptional composure and skill against her Chinese opponent.