Stan Wawrinka’s Last Dance Promises Energetic Salsa Moves at United Cup

Stan Wawrinka embarks on his final season on the ATP Tour, aiming to conclude his storied career with impactful performances. As he turns 40, the Swiss tennis star is ready to fight for every match, determined to enhance his legacy by competing fiercely in 2026.

United Cup Highlights Wawrinka’s Competitive Spirit

Wawrinka’s opening match at the United Cup in Perth showcased his tenacity. He battled for three hours and 18 minutes to defeat French player Arthur Rinderknech, ranked in the Top 30. This match marked the 583rd victory of his career, proving he remains a formidable opponent.

A Legacy of Competition

Despite announcing this season as his last, he emphasizes his desire to win. Wawrinka stated, “I’m a competitor. I want to still fight against good players.” His ambition includes re-entering the Top 100 rankings, a challenging feat at his age.

Career Achievements

• Wawrinka is a three-time Grand Slam champion.
• He won the Australian Open in 2014, Roland Garros in 2015, and the US Open in 2016.
• He maintains a powerful record, especially in Grand Slam finals, with a 3-1 record against the Big Three: Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic.

His coach, Magnus Norman, respects Wawrinka’s commitment to hard work and his enjoyment of competitive play, regardless of stage size. Wawrinka shared that the thrill he experiences, whether at a Grand Slam or a smaller venue, remains significant.

Memorable Moments Against the Big Three

Wawrinka’s victories came in pivotal Grand Slam moments. His matches against Djokovic in the finals are particularly notable. In the 2015 French Open final, he delivered a remarkable performance, and his 2016 US Open victory was equally memorable, moving both him and Norman to tears backstage before the match.

Reflections on His Journey

Wawrinka expressed pride in maximizing his potential throughout his career. His introspective nature shines through as he states, “It was always to push my own limits.” He acknowledges the challenges faced against legends like Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic, yet retains a great respect for the competition.

As a standout player, Wawrinka’s legacy is already established, but his final season promises more than just farewells. With a focus on energy and determination, he is set to deliver memorable performances, especially at significant events like the United Cup, as he dances through the conclusion of his remarkable career on the court.