Stan Wawrinka Announces 2026 Will Be His Final Season in Professional Tennis

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka has confirmed that 2026 will be his final season on the professional tennis circuit. The Swiss star described the upcoming year as the “final chapter” of a career that spanned more than two decades and saw him triumph over some of the greatest players in tennis history.

Career Highlights and Grand Slam Success

Wawrinka, a former world number three, was one of the few players to claim major singles titles during the dominance of the “Big Three”Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. His notable achievements include:

  • 2014 Australian Open: Wawrinka defeated Rafael Nadal to capture his first Grand Slam trophy.
  • 2015 French Open: He beat Novak Djokovic in a memorable final at Roland Garros.
  • 2016 US Open: Wawrinka again overcame Djokovic to secure his third and final Grand Slam title.

In addition to his Grand Slam victories, Wawrinka has won 16 tour-level titles, including a prestigious Masters 1000 title in Monte Carlo (2014). He also earned Olympic gold in doubles alongside Roger Federer at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, further cementing his legacy in Swiss tennis history.

Wawrinka’s Signature Style and Legacy

Renowned for his one-handed backhand and aggressive baseline play, Wawrinka was one of the few players capable of challenging and defeating top-ranked opponents in major finals. Remarkably, he beat the world number one in each of his Grand Slam victories, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion on tennis’ biggest stages.

Despite battling injuries in recent years and currently ranked outside the top 150, the 40-year-old Swiss player remains determined to finish his career on a high note.

“I still want to push my limits and finish this journey on the best note possible. I still have dreams in this sport,” Wawrinka said.

“I’ve enjoyed every part of what tennis has given me, especially the emotions I feel playing in front of you. I’m looking forward to seeing you one more time, all around the world.”

Looking Ahead: Wawrinka’s Final Season

Wawrinka will officially kick off his farewell season at the United Cup team competition in Perth, starting 2 January 2026. Fans worldwide will have the opportunity to witness his final performances, celebrating a career that brought excitement, resilience, and unforgettable moments on the court.

As he prepares to step away from professional tennis, Wawrinka’s legacy as one of the greatest Swiss players—and one of the few to consistently challenge the dominance of the Big Three—remains secure.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *