Roger Federer has made it clear that fans should not expect to see him return to professional tennis.The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who retired in 2022, is set to play an exhibition match at the US Open but said his appearance in New York is purely for fun and not the start of a comeback.Asked whether he could return to the professional tour, Federer gave a straightforward response.“No, not at all,” Federer said at a press conference, according to Olympics.com.The Swiss great explained that making a comeback would require him to meet several professional obligations, including joining the anti-doping testing pool. More importantly, he said his busy schedule and physical condition make a return unrealistic.“Thanks for asking. I wasn’t sure if the question was going to get asked, but I’m happy you did, so I can clarify in case anybody thought. Anyway, you have to enter the doping pool. There are way too many obstacles. I’m too busy. I’m barely finding time to play any exhos [exhibition matches], so imagine a tour, and the body is done,” Federer said.The 45-year-old added that he is comfortable with life away from competitive tennis and now enjoys watching the sport rather than playing it at the highest level.“But I’m very happy with how I’m feeling. I’m just a fan now, enjoying watching,” he added.

A new chapter for the Swiss legend

Federer last played at the US Open in 2019 before announcing his retirement three years later. He remains the only player, male or female, to win five consecutive US Open titles, achieving the feat from 2004 to 2008.His exhibition appearance comes shortly before another major milestone: his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Federer was selected in his first year of eligibility and will be inducted on August 29 in Newport, Rhode Island.The Swiss star won 20 Grand Slam singles titles, along with 103 tour-level trophies and Olympic gold and silver medals, before calling time on his legendary career.