With Andre Agassi and Yannick Noah set to take over as Team World and Team Europe captains for the 2025 Laver Cup, another tennis legend has now been selected for a leadership role.
Two-time US Open singles champion Pat Rafter will join forces with Agassi as Team World's vice captain beginning at the 2025 Laver Cup in San Francisco. The eighth edition of the presitigious tournament will be played at Chase Center from Sept. 19-21.
Rafter, the Australian former world No. 1, is renowned for his elegant serve-and-volley style and sportsmanship on and off the court. His career highlights include consecutive US Open titles in 1997 and 1998, as well as Wimbledon final runs in 2000 and 2001.
Rafter will take over from American Patrick McEnroe, who served as Team World's vice captain 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 on board, 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 take over from John McEnroe as Team World captain, competed against Rafter 15 times at the professional level. The American won 10 of those matches, and can now look forward to teaming up with his former rival.
“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,” said Agassi. “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.”
Laver Cup hospitality packages are on sale now, with full-tournament ticket packages set to go on sale in February. For further updates on player announcements, event updates and ticket presales, fans are encouraged to register as a ‘Laver Cup Insider’ at lavercup.com.
