Five consecutive US Open titles is a mark that stands unmatched in the Open Era. Roger Federer achieved this feat from 2004 to 2008 at Flushing Meadows, joining Pete Sampras and Jimmy Connors as the only men to have lifted the trophy five times in the modern era. Set on the hard courts of New York, the record remains one of the most enduring accomplishments in Grand Slam tennis.
Djokovic Targets Fifth US Open Crown and 25th Major
Novak Djokovic arrives at the 2026 US Open with the chance to match this historic tally. The Serbian, who secured his most recent major at the 2023 US Open, is pursuing a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title. A victory in New York this year would put Djokovic alongside Federer, Sampras, and Connors with five US Open men’s singles championships, equalling the Open Era benchmark.
Federer, now retired, discussed Djokovic’s prospects during a press conference at Flushing Meadows, where he is participating in an exhibition event alongside Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, and Andy Roddick. Federer and Djokovic contested 50 matches between 2006 and 2020, with Djokovic holding a narrow 27-23 edge in their head-to-head.
Asked for his assessment of Djokovic’s chances, Federer was direct: “I mean, I feel like whenever Novak enters any tournament, for that matter, or major, he’ll be in it with a shot.” Djokovic has frequently entered Grand Slam draws as a top contender, regardless of age or recent form.
Federer Draws Curtain on Professional Career
Federer’s appearance at Arthur Ashe Stadium in 2026 marks his first return to the US Open venue since 2019. The event, billed as “Roger Federer: An Icon Returns to New York,” drew a packed crowd for a night of exhibition matches and celebrations. He played a singles set against Roddick, then partnered with McEnroe in doubles against Roddick and Agassi, making the evening a showcase of nostalgia and entertainment rather than competitive tennis.
Despite the fanfare and comparisons to contemporaries Serena and Venus Williams, both of whom have made returns to the court in their forties, Federer was unequivocal about his own future. “No, not at all,” he replied when asked about a potential comeback. “There’s way too many obstacles, and I’m too busy. I’m barely finding time to play any exos. So imagine a tour, and the body is done. But I’m very happy how I’m feeling, so all good, and just a fan now.”
Federer also revealed that his official farewell at the US Open had been delayed by seven years, citing the demands of family life and the difficulty of finding the right moment to say goodbye to a venue where he made so much history.
This week, Federer will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, headlining the Class of 2026.
Arthur Ashe Stadium and the Stage of Legends
The US Open’s main court, Arthur Ashe Stadium, has been the site of these milestones since its inauguration on August 25, 1997. Replacing Louis Armstrong Stadium, Ashe Stadium became the world’s largest tennis venue, with a capacity of 23,000. Its dedication ceremony featured tributes to Arthur Ashe himself and a performance by Whitney Houston. Since then, it has hosted every US Open final.
Djokovic enters the 2026 US Open seeking a title that would give him five US Open men’s singles championships and put him alongside Federer, Sampras, and Connors.
