Ever wondered what it's like to face the 'Everest' of tennis? Andre Agassi, a legend in his own right, had that exact experience when he first played Roger Federer at the Australian Open. This wasn't just any match; it was a defining moment that revealed the sheer brilliance and unique challenge Federer presented.
In a fun exhibition match at the 2026 Australian Open Opening Ceremony, the two tennis titans, Agassi and Federer, teamed up. They faced the Aussie duo of Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt on Rod Laver Arena. During the match, with the score tied at one set each, Agassi made a strategic substitution, bringing in Ash Barty, which proved to be a winning move. Agassi/Barty/Federer ultimately triumphed over Hewitt/Rafter with a score of 2-4, 4-2, 4-2.
After the exhibition, Jim Courier hosted a Q&A session with the tennis legends. Agassi and Federer reflected on their one and only match at the Australian Open.
But here's where it gets controversial... Agassi and Federer only clashed once at the Australian Open, in the 2005 quarterfinals. Federer, the defending champion, dominated Agassi in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. Agassi didn't have the fondest memories of this match. In fact, he humorously claimed, "I don’t remember that one at all! I actually don’t think it happened. I really don’t think the match happened. This is AI right here, this is not real."
Federer, reminded of the score, shared his perspective, saying it was always a pleasure playing Agassi. He highlighted Agassi's unique ball-striking ability, which made opponents run a lot. Agassi then shared his thoughts on Federer, saying that playing Federer was like time standing still.
“You hit the ball, it leaves your racket, it does exactly what you wanted it to do, yet he had all the time in the world, and you couldn’t commit because he could throw it, he could change pace, he could move you north and south, east and west…”
Federer added, “I knew I was playing the Everest of the next generation there.”
At the time of their Australian Open match, Federer already had four Grand Slam titles. He went on to win 16 more before retiring.
And this is the part most people miss... Let's talk about Grand Slam titles. While both Federer and Agassi achieved incredible success, neither holds the record for the most men's singles titles. That honor belongs to Novak Djokovic, with a staggering 24 major titles. Rafael Nadal is in second place with 22. Federer holds 20, and Agassi has 8, putting him in a tie for sixth place with Ivan Lendl and Jimmy Connors.
Agassi's position in the rankings could be challenged by the rising stars, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. If Alcaraz wins two Grand Slam titles this year, he would equal Agassi's count of eight. Sinner could potentially surpass Agassi in the coming years if he wins all four Grand Slam titles in 2026.
What do you think? Where do Federer and Agassi truly rank among the tennis greats? Do you agree with Agassi's assessment of Federer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
