Patrick Rafter

Imagine racing to the tennis net so fast that your opponent can’t get the ball back — and winning the biggest tournament two years in a row! That’s Patrick Rafter.

Patrick Rafter is an Australian tennis player from the 1990s and early 2000s. The most important thing about him is that he won the US Open — one of the four biggest tennis events — in both 1997 and 1998. That made him one of the most exciting players of his time.

Rafter was famous for his 'serve-and-volley' style: he served the ball, dashed to the net, and hit quick volleys. This made his matches feel like fast, action-packed showdowns. Fans loved watching him because he played bravely and fairly — always polite to opponents and popular with crowds.

Why he matters: his back-to-back US Open wins and his exciting, sportsmanlike style inspired many kids to play tennis and try attacking the net. Patrick Rafter reminds us that speed, courage, and respect are as important as power in sports.