Rafa Follows 'FedEx' To AUS! Rafael Nadal Set For Return To Australian Open 2026

Last Updated:January 19, 2026, 18:21 IST

Rafael Nadal returns to Melbourne for Australian Open 2026 Night of Legends, joining Ashleigh Barty and Dylan Alcott after Roger Federer's recent spotlight at Rod Laver Arena.

Rafael Nadal at the Australian Open (AFP)

Where Roger Federer goes, Rafael Nadal is never far behind.

Just days after Federer made a stirring return to Melbourne Park, Nadal is set to follow his old rival back to the Australian Open spotlight.

Nadal will return to Melbourne for the Australian Open 2026, appearing at the tournament’s ‘Night of Legends‘ on Sunday, February 1.

The Spaniard will share the stage with Australian icons Ashleigh Barty and Dylan Alcott in a fan-focused celebration that includes live chats and photo opportunities, according to Tennis Australia.

Federer had already set the tone. On Saturday, the Swiss great stepped onto Rod Laver Arena for the first time since 2020, playing an exhibition doubles match alongside Barty, Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt and Pat Rafter during the Australian Open’s inaugural opening ceremony.

Now Nadal gets his turn.

Nadal lifted the Australian Open trophy in 2009 and 2022, both times surviving five-set finals. His 2022 comeback from two sets down against Daniil Medvedev — lasting five hours and 24 minutes — remains one of the tournament’s greatest finals.

The two-time Australian Open winner has not been back Down Under since his injury-hit 2023 campaign, when he exited in the second round — a setback that ultimately derailed the final chapter of his career. Nadal officially retired at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, closing the book on one of tennis’ greatest rivalries.

But while his playing days are over, Nadal’s presence still commands attention. The 39-year-old will appear on men’s singles final at Kia Arena, alongside Barty and Alcott, as part of an event hosted with his long-time sponsor Kia.

It’s been a year of farewell moments for Nadal. He recently appeared at the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah in his role as a Saudi Tennis Ambassador, and last season he returned to Roland Garros for an emotional tribute celebrating his record 14 French Open titles, with Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray all in attendance.

Now Melbourne awaits again.

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