Nadal Set for Sentimental Australian Open Return at Night of Legends
MELBOURNE, 19 January 2026 – Rafael Nadal will make an emotional return to Melbourne Park next month, not to compete, but to be honoured as part of the Australian Open’s inaugural ‘Night of Legends’ celebration. The retired 22-time Grand Slam champion will join fellow Australian Open champions Ashleigh Barty and Dylan Alcott for the special event scheduled for 1 February, the same day as the men’s singles final.
A Return to the Happy Slam
Following in the footsteps of his great rival Roger Federer, who featured in a star-studded opening ceremony last weekend, Nadal will be back at the season’s first major for the first time since his retirement in late 2024. Unlike Federer, the Spaniard will not take part in an exhibition match. Instead, he will headline the Night of Legends at Kia Arena, sharing stories from his Australian Open journey and reflecting on his legacy at a tournament where he claimed two of his most epic titles.
Nadal’s Melbourne Legacy
Nadal, now 39, compiled a formidable 77-16 record at Melbourne Park. His triumphs in 2009 and 2022 are etched in tournament folklore, with both finals requiring five gruelling sets. The 2022 final stands as one of the greatest comebacks in tennis history, where he rallied from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev in a marathon five-hour, 24-minute battle.
Key Details: AO Night of Legends
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | AO Night of Legends |
| Date | 1 February 2026 |
| Venue | Kia Arena, Melbourne Park |
| Special Guests | Rafael Nadal, Ashleigh Barty, Dylan Alcott |
| Format | Fan Q&A, story-telling, live music, interactive activities |
| Nadal’s Last AO | 2023 (Second Round) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rafael Nadal playing in the 2026 Australian Open?
No. Rafael Nadal retired from professional tennis in November 2024. His appearance is strictly as a special guest for the Night of Legends event, not as a competitor in the tournament.
What is the Night of Legends?
It is a new fan-focused event created by Australian Open organisers to honour tennis greats. The programme includes interactive activities, live music, and a chance to hear personal reflections from legends of the game like Nadal, Barty, and Alcott.
How can fans see Nadal at the Australian Open?
Access to the Night of Legends event inside Kia Arena will require a specific ticket. The Australian Open has also indicated fans may have opportunities to win prizes such as tickets to the men’s final or a photo session with the two-time champion through event promotions.