Pat Rafter returned to singles tennis in style on Monday night, beating Swede Mats Wilander 6-2 7-6 in an exhibition match in Townsville.

It was the Queenslander's first singles encounter since the 2001 Davis Cup final loss to France and the twice US Open champion showed glimpses of his serve-volley best during the 75 minute match.

After playing doubles with good friend Joshua Eagle In two tournaments during the summer, including the Australian Open, Rafter showed no ill effects from the shoulder injury that ended his professional career.

He broke the former world number one three times in the opening set before taking the second set tie-break 7-1.

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