Roger Federer, Carlos Alcaraz practices delight fans on US Open, Day 1

Day 1 of US Open Fan Week started with a splash as tennis fans were treated to practice sessions of two favorites: Roger Federer and Carlos Alcaraz.

You could call it a pinch-me moment as Federer was on the grounds to prepare for his August 25 exhibition. He took photos, signed autographs, and was bombarded with love making it impossible to believe he is five years removed from his professional tennis career and days away from induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

Alcaraz has been sorely missed for four months, dealing with his wrist injury.

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Federer practiced with Lorenzo Musetti

Social media was aflutter when Federer tied the headband on. Federer is the last man to win back-to-back US Open titles, a feat that Carlos Alcaraz will try to match.

Federer’s exhibition will feature Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi, and John McEnroe.

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Alcaraz’s hair draws Federer comparisons

While Alcaraz was gone, he let his hair grow, and many think it resembles Federer’s.

As he got out of the car to arrive, his Nike clothing gave early Rafael Nadal vibes.

Alcaraz has drawn comparisions to both Federer and Nadal which is lofty praise. However, his charisma and smile are uniquely his.

Andrey Rublev greeted Alcaraz with a hug. No one knows how Alcaraz, who is wearing an arm sleeve, will play after a long injury layoff, but his participation in the tournament as well as his partnership with Serena Williams in mixed doubles has injected excitement into both events.

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