Stan Wawrinka Begins Farewell Tour with Gritty Win, Eyes Australian Open
January 18, 2026 – Swiss tennis star Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has embarked on the final chapter of his illustrious career. The 40-year-old veteran, who announced in December that 2026 would be his last season on the ATP Tour, started his farewell campaign with a dramatic victory at the United Cup and is now set for a first-round clash at the Australian Open.
A Fitting Start to the Final Chapter
Wawrinka’s final season began in epic fashion at the United Cup in Perth on January 3. In a marathon match lasting over three hours, he rallied from a set down to defeat French world No. 29 Arthur Rinderknech 5-7, 7-6(5), 7-6(5). The win helped secure a 3-0 victory for Switzerland and demonstrated the fighting spirit that has defined his career. “I’m a competitor. I want to push my limit, I want to still fight against good players,” Wawrinka stated in Perth, dismissing the notion of a passive farewell tour.
The Legacy in Numbers: A Career Overview
Wawrinka, a former world No. 3, turned professional in 2002. Known for his powerful, one-handed backhand, he earned the nickname “Stan the Man” for his performances on the sport’s biggest stages. His career is marked by a remarkable ability to peak for major tournaments, defeating the world No. 1 in the final of all three of his Grand Slam victories.
| Career Statistic | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Grand Slam Titles | 3 (2014 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, 2016 US Open) |
| Career ATP Titles | 16 |
| Career Win-Loss Record | 583-380 (ATP Tour) |
| Career Prize Money | Approx. $38 million |
| Olympic Medal | Gold in Doubles (2008 Beijing, with Roger Federer) |
| Current ATP Ranking (Jan 2026) | No. 139 |
| 2026 Record to Date | 1 win, 4 losses |
Up Next: Australian Open First Round
The next stop on Wawrinka’s final season is Melbourne. He is scheduled to face Serbia’s Laslo Djere (ATP No. 91) in the first round of the Australian Open on January 19. Wawrinka has a rich history at the tournament, winning his first major title there in 2014 by defeating Rafael Nadal in the final. This first-round match will be a test of his current form against a solid opponent.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Stan Wawrinka announce his retirement?
Wawrinka announced via social media on December 20, 2025, that the 2026 season would be his last as a professional tennis player, writing “Every book needs an ending.”
How many Grand Slam finals has Wawrinka played?
He has contested four Grand Slam singles finals, boasting a 3-1 record. His only loss came to Rafael Nadal in the 2017 French Open final.
What is Wawrinka’s best Grand Slam tournament?
Statistically, his best record is at the US Open, where he has a 46-16 win-loss record and won the title in 2016. He also won the Australian Open in 2014.
Has Wawrinka won any Masters 1000 titles?
Yes, he won the Monte-Carlo Masters in 2014, defeating Roger Federer in the final. He was also a finalist at the Madrid Masters in 2013 and the Indian Wells Masters in 2017.