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Federer, Sharapova practise at Rod Laver Arena

  • ausopen.com

Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova were the first superstars to practise at Rod Laver Arena ahead of Australian Open 2020.

On Friday, the duo enjoyed hit-outs on the tournament's premier court, 10 days out from the year's first Grand Slam event. 

Sharapova, who was knocked out in the first round of this week's Brisbane International, hit with her team in the morning as she prepares for her 16th Australian Open campaign.

Maria Sharapova practises at Rod Laver Arena. (photo: Fiona Hamilton/Tennis Australia)

A champion at Melbourne Park in 2008, Sharapova is a wildcard entry this year, currently ranked No.147 after an injury-plagued 2019.

In the afternoon, Federer arrived and hit with Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky, a player famous for beating the Swiss at Wimbledon's Centre Court in the second round in 2013.

Federer, 38, is yet to play an official match in 2020.

He is set to contest an incredible 21st Australian Open, having won the title six times; in 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017 and 2018.