rafter retires

All i can say is what a champ he's been for Australia
A credit to himself and always gave generously of time and funds to the disadvantage
He may not have one tennis ultimate glory but one millions of fans all over the world and did this country proud in victory and defeat


From www.news.com.au

Rafter gone for good
January 10, 2003

PAT RAFTER has officially retired from tennis. The two-time US Open champion made his announcement in an open letter to the media today.


Rafter - I gave it my all.

It reads:

"I know it's been a while coming, but I am announcing my official retirement from professional tennis," Rafter said.

"As you can probably understand, it has been a very difficult decision for me to make, which is why it took me some time to be sure I was making the right decision.

"After taking several months for my arm to recover from stress fracture injuries I sustained in late 2001, I wanted to make sure that besides gaining physical fitness, I still had the motivation to compete.

"If I couldn't commit to giving 100 per cent to the game, then there would be no point in returning. By the end of 2002, the motivation just wasn't there and my decision was made.

"I will have regrets that the Wimbledon and Davis Cup trophies are not in my cupboard, but that's sport, you win some and you lose some.

"However, I feel I can leave the game, satisfied with my achievements, knowing that I gave it my all.

"I loved being a professional player, competing with the world's best and making new friends all over the world. I will certainly miss some aspects of the game in my retirement, but for now, I need to stay home and focus on the new developments in my life.

"I haven't made any decisions about my future yet, and I'm not in any hurry. Now that I've officially retired, I feel like my mind is free to make decisions beyond competing in the tennis arena.

"A big thank you to my tennis fans in Australia and worldwide for their tremendous support and patience as I debated my future.

"I would also like to thank my partner Lara, my family, Newk (John Newcombe), Tennis Australia and the ATP.

"Special thanks though must go to Rochey (Tony Roche), who has been instrumental in my development as a tennis player and played an integral role in any successes that I achieved."

AAP