Under the bright blue sky of Dubai, Stan Wawrinka made his way to the mixed-media zone, wearing a custom T-shirt emblazoned with “Stan The Man.” At 40 years old, Wawrinka is embarking on his farewell season, receiving an enthusiastic response from fans as he competes against younger players in major tournaments like the Australian Open, Rotterdam Open, and Open Occitanie in France.
Wawrinka’s passion for tennis remains strong, even as age presents a formidable opponent—a challenge that even legends like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer cannot escape. In recent years, even Novak Djokovic has shown signs of vulnerability. However, Wawrinka’s remarkable career has been defined by his triumphs, winning three Grand Slam titles during an era dominated by the sport’s top players.
His ability to reach finals in major tournaments such as the Australian, French, and US Opens, while amassing as many Grand Slam titles as Andy Murray, speaks volumes. Though Murray’s achievements might be marked by sheer effort, Wawrinka’s playing style is admired for its elegance, particularly his renowned one-handed backhand.
This week, fans in the UAE have the opportunity to join Wawrinka in his tennis farewell at the ATP 500 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, a tournament he won back in 2016. In a recent interview with Khaleej Times, Wawrinka talked about the emotional support he has received during this pivotal season and reflected on his friendship with Federer.
Discussing the fan support, Wawrinka expressed gratitude for being able to remain competitive this season. He stated, “It’s important that in my last year, I would like to be on a level which allows me to play some good matches.” He appreciates the wildcards that have granted him entry into various tournaments and noted how positively the season has unfolded.
Reflecting on his victory at the Dubai Championships in 2016, Wawrinka remarked on the significance of winning at a tournament he always aspired to play. The support from fans during that event made it especially memorable for him, and he is thankful for the chance to return.
Looking back on his time in a competitive era featuring the likes of the “Big Four,” Wawrinka acknowledged his fortunate position. He faced formidable opponents and achieved a notable record against them, which he considers a significant accomplishment.
His journey to success has been an inspiration, proving that perseverance can lead to great outcomes, even if it takes longer than expected. In tennis, each player follows a unique path, making individual achievements all the more significant.
Addressing the current landscape of tennis, Wawrinka noted the rise of younger stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Their capabilities at such a young age promise an exciting future for tennis fans, as they continue to innovate and elevate their games.
Wawrinka also reflected on his partnership with Federer, which has been central to his career. Their collaboration in events such as the Olympics and the Davis Cup enriched Wawrinka’s experience and provided invaluable support throughout his journey as a professional athlete.
As he concludes this chapter, Wawrinka remains humble about the comparisons to Federer, playfully dismissing the belief that his backhand surpasses that of his famous compatriot. His legacy in tennis will endure, characterized by his distinct style and the tenacity that carried him through the highs and lows of a remarkable career.