Classic Matches: Ivanisevic v Rafter

2001 - Men's Singles Final
G Ivanisevic (Cro) bt P Rafter (Aus) 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 2-6, 9-7

Goran Ivanisevic took his first title at the fourth attempt with a pulsating five-set win over Pat Rafter.

Rain delays meant this was the first time a final had begun on the third Monday, and gave many spectators a rare chance to snap up last-minute tickets.

The crowd provided a raucous backdrop, with enthusiastic cheers greeting every point in a three-hour classic.

The Croat finally came through 9-7 in the fifth after double-faulting on two previous championship points.

Ivanisevic had easily held his serve as he took the first set, only for his Australian opponent to draw level.

But despite looking in trouble when he called the doctor to treat his stiff shoulder in the third set, he played through the pain to edge ahead again.

However, just as Ivanisevic finally seemed bound for victory after suffering three final defeats in the 1990s, Rafter fought back.

As the fourth set slipped away, Ivanisevic lost his cool when unhappy with two calls. He slammed his racket to the ground, kicked the net and swore at the umpire.

Rafter looked the favourite going into the final set, but Ivanisevic's game held firm.

After a few scares, he eventually served out for a famous victory which earned him a rapturous welcome from more than 100,000 people when he returned to his hometown of Split.