Patrick Rafter will share the stage with Roger Federer once again at the upcoming Laver Cup in San Francisco this weekend. The Aussie could not help but look back at the beginning of the Swiss Maestro's remarkable journey.
He knows a lot about it, standing as Roger's first rival at Majors at the 1999 Roland Garros. The 17-year-old impressed an established star. Federer fell in four sets, but his smoothtechnique and natural talent already stood out.
Rafter remembers leaving the court impressed, sensing that Roger was destined for something special. Their paths crossed again over the next couple of years, with the final duel coming in Halle in 2001.
Rafter survived match points and prevailed. However, he knew he would not challenge the upcoming stars for too long, retiring soon after. By then, Federer's elegance and effortless shot-making were already turning heads.
The Aussie praised the Swiss for everything he has achieved and his revolutionary influence on tennis. With his fluid movement, diverse shot selection and grace under pressure, the Swiss redefined what was possible on a tennis court.
His domination, records and high-quality tennis at nearly 40 speak volumes. The two reunite decades later, and Patrick acknowledges that the teenager he once faced went on to become one of the most influential figures the sport has ever seen.
In their first duel in Paris twenty-six years ago, Rafter ousted Federer 5-7, 6-3, 6-0, 6-2 in two hours and 13 minutes. The 17-year-old debuted at Majors and took the opening set against world no. 3.
However, the more experienced player recovered his shots and dominated sets two, three and four. Patrick saved seven of nine break points and took charge on the return from set number two, including a bagel.
"Roger was a promising young player. He was only 17 when I met him at Roland Garros. I came off the court and said, 'Damn, this guy knows what he is doing. He is smooth and will learn how to play with time.'
I have had the opportunity to face him a few times. Last time we met in Halle in 2001, I won a tight one after saving match points. After that, I thought it was time to leave the game.
You could see how beautiful his shots were. He is a revolutionary player who changed the game," Patrick Rafter said.
