With the hoopla surrounding Rafael Nadal‘s retirement and Novak Djokovic‘s teaming with Andy Murray, tennis fans may be overlooking the elder statesman on the ATP Tour. He is Stan Wawrinka who will turn 40 on March 28, 2025.
“Stan the Man” and “Stanimal” are some of his nicknames. He is a fan-favorite who will be at the 2025 Australian Open because he accepted a wildcard. Wawrinka is one of three former Australian Open champions in the draw. (The others are Djokovic and defending champion Jannik Sinner.)
Stan Wawrinka receives an Australian Open main draw WC! pic.twitter.com/ZGpCsuGFvL
— Mario Boccardi (@marioboc17) December 13, 2024
His ranking has dipped in recent years. Currently, he is World No. 161. The desire, drive, and work ethic have never left him despite the foot, knee, and other injuries he has dealt with.
🔥💪🇨🇭🇦🇺 Stan Wawrinka has been given a wildcard for the 2025 Australian Open @stanwawrinka vs @DjokerNole ‘down under’ in 2014 💥pic.twitter.com/sEkmRuHueW
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) December 13, 2024
Wawrinka is a player who could have won more Grand Slams had they not shared their prime playing years with the Big Three. The three Grand Slams he won were earned by defeating Novak Djokovic for two and Rafael Nadal for one in the finals.
How Much Longer Will Stan Wawrinka Play?
Wawrinka enjoys the process and training which has extended his career. He is grateful for his longevity. It has been a 22-year career filled with accomplishments including 16 career titles, a career-high World No. 3 ranking, and an Olympic gold medal in men’s doubles at the 2008 Olympics with his Swedish compatriot Roger Federer.
His Tattoo Says It All
Stan Wawrinka has a tattoo on his forearm that perfectly summarizes who he is. It is a quote from Irish writer Samuel Beckett. “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.”
