Renowned for his elegant serve-and-volley style and sportsmanship on and off the court, Rafter brings a wealth of experience and passion to Team World. As a player, the Australian icon was a fixture in the game’s upper echelon during his career, highlighted by his consecutive US Open titles in 1997 and 1998. He also reached the Wimbledon final in 2000 and 2001 and was World No.1 in 1999.
Rafter will take over from American Patrick McEnroe who has been Vice Captain of Team World since the inaugural Laver Cup in Prague in 2017.
“I’m incredibly honored to join Team World as Vice Captain,” said Rafter. “The Laver Cup is one of the most exciting events in tennis and when Andre asked me to come onboard, while it took me by surprise, it was an easy decision for me since he’s a great guy and I’ve always loved team competition.”
“I’m looking forward to dipping my toe back in the professional game and working alongside Andre – on the same side of the net this time! We go back a long way and though he was one of my biggest rivals, I have nothing but respect for him. It’ll be great to re-connect, get to know the players, and hopefully inspire the current generation of champions.”
Agassi, who will lead Team World for the first time this year, expressed his enthusiasm for Rafter’s addition, “I couldn’t be happier that Pat has agreed to join our team. On a personal note, he was always one of the players I respected and enjoyed competing against the most. Pat’s experience, leadership and character make him the perfect fit for this role. His legacy speaks for itself, and I know the players, and I, will benefit tremendously from his insights and demeanor. Together we will be focused on building a strong and committed team with the goal to win in San Francisco.”
Laver Cup Chairman and TEAM8 CEO Tony Godsick, also shared his thoughts on Rafter’s appointment, “The Laver Cup’s vision is to bring together and celebrate our sport’s great champions, and with Andre’s appointment of Pat, this is yet another step in cementing that vision.”
“Pat is a national treasure in Australia and loved by fans around the world. We couldn’t be more excited to have him as Vice Captain of Team World and in an important role in the Laver Cup. His presence will undoubtedly inspire both the players and the fans.”
The Laver Cup pits six of the best men’s players from Europe against six of their counterparts from the rest of the World over three days of intense team competition. Each team is captained by a legend of the sport.
