Pat Rafter, the former professional tennis player, is undeniably an Australian sporting hero.
And so, here’s everything you need to know about the 52-year-old who captured hearts both on and off the court.
What does Pat Rafter do now?
Pat Rafter retired from competitive tennis in 2003.
Today, Pat is the founding ambassador of Padel Australia and promotes the sport of padel.

In January 2024, he competed in the Australian Padel Open. In April 2024, Pat represented Australia at the Senior World Padel Championships.
Did Pat Rafter ever win a grand slam?
Yes, Pat won two Grand Slam titles during his illustrious tennis career.
He claimed back-to-back victories at the US Open in 1997 and 1998. Thus cementing him as one of Australia’s most successful tennis players.
This made him the first Australian man to win consecutive US Open titles since John Newcombe in 1973.

Why did Pat Rafter retire?
Pat retired from professional tennis in 2003 for several reasons.
Known for his physically demanding serve-and-volley style, Pat endured recurring shoulder injuries. These injuries made it increasingly challenging to compete at the highest level.
Additionally, the grind of the tennis circuit and the pressures of maintaining peak performance took a toll on his mental well-being.
Further to that, at the time, Pat said that he wanted to prioritise his family and enjoy a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Is Pat Rafter married?
Yes, Pat is married to Lara Rafter (née Feltham), a former model and marketing executive.
The couple’s relationship reportedly began in the late 1990s. They got engaged in the early 2000s after dating for several years.
In 2001, the couple welcomed a son named Joshua, and in 2003, they welcomed a daughter named India.
Following their children’s births, Pat and Lara tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in Fiji in April 2004. They were surrounded by family and close friends.