Patrick Rafter
Tennis champion and humanitarian
Patrick Rafter, an acclaimed Australian tennis player, is remembered for his back-to-back US Open victories and his exemplary sportsmanship.
Signature style
Known for his impeccable serve-and-volley style, Patrick Rafter was one of the premier tennis players of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
A winner of two Grand Slam® titles, he captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his aggressive net play and grace under pressure.
Admired by peers and fans
Patrick Rafter burst on to the international tennis scene in the mid-1990s, but his breakthrough came in 1997 when he claimed his first Grand Slam® title at the US Open.
He successfully defended his crown the following year, securing back-to-back titles to solidify his place among the elite. In 1999, he ascended to No. 1 in the world rankings, and in the following two years made consecutive appearances in the final at The Championships, Wimbledon.
Known for his humility and respect towards opponents, Rafter was awarded the ATP Sportsmanship Award four times (1997, 1999, 2000 and 2001). His friendly attitude and fairness on court earned him admiration from peers and fans alike, epitomizing what it means to be a role model in tennis.
Rafter’s commitment to excellence on and off the court earned him widespread respect, not only as a player but as an ambassador for the sport.
Patrick Rafter became a Rolex Testimonee in 2015.
