Australian Patrick Rafter still showed that he still has what it takes in the tennis courts after winning his second Statoil Masters Tennis title on Sunday. The former top-ranked player defeated Tim Henman of Britain 6-3, 6-1 on Sunday at the Royal Albert Hall. Rafter, the Davis Cup captain for Australia, first won this event back in 2009.
“That’s the best tennis that I’ve played since I’ve been doing these events,” said Rafter. “I feel like I found something in my game, which is weird at 40 years of age. I feel like I’m actually still working on things.
“I’ve enjoyed it. I always love being in London with the family and the kids at this time of year. it’s been a great week for me.
“I love winning! I think it’s important that the crowd knows that too. That’s what it’s all about. Having a go and trying your hardest. You have
fun, but it’s still really competitive.”
The 40-year old, a two-time US Open titlist, did not lose the set in his matches during the week. He defeated Greg Rusedski and Goran Ivanisevic en route to the final.
“It went my way early on,” said Rafter. “Tim had a few break points and could have gone up early; it’s all about momentum and confidence. I was lucky to get out of a couple of early service games and from there played really well.”
Henman gave good words to his opponent.
“Pat’s playing fantastically well. Every match this week, he’s shown he’s been the best player here. He was too good for me, he’s serving unbelievable. I could have done everything a little bit better, but the way Pat’s playing, his consistent level is very impressive,” he said.
