Stan Wawrinka Makes History with Record Five-Set Victory at Australian Open
In a thrilling display of endurance and skill, 40-year-old tennis legend Stan Wawrinka secured a monumental victory at the Australian Open, marking another chapter in his illustrious career. The former world number three triumphed over Arthur Gea in a grueling second-round match with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (3), extending his record for the most five-set matches in the Open Era to an impressive 58.
A Milestone Achievement in Melbourne
This win not only highlights Wawrinka's resilience but also cements his place in tennis history. By advancing to the third round, he becomes the first man aged 40 or older to reach this stage in a Grand Slam since Ken Roswell accomplished the feat in 1978 at the age of 44. The match, held at the KIA Arena, lasted an exhausting four hours and 33 minutes, making it the longest contest of this year's Australian Open so far.
Wawrinka, who has announced that this season will be his last as a professional player, expressed his emotions after the hard-fought victory. "I'll pick up a beer. I deserve one! Exhausted! It's my last Australian Open, so I'm trying to last as long as possible. Not only I had fun, but you gave me so much energy. I'm not young any more so I need the extra," he shared during an on-court interview, drawing cheers from the crowd in Melbourne.
Pushing Limits in a Farewell Season
The Swiss star's determination is evident as he navigates his final year on the tour. With this win, his record in five-set matches now stands at 31 victories, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Reflecting on the significance of the moment, Wawrinka emphasized staying present and embracing the journey. "Never compare the past. That's really never a good idea. For me, I'm always trying to stay in the present, living with what's happening in the present. Of course, after a tough year like last year, knowing it's my last one here, my last Australian Open, my last year, it's really special. The emotions are really completely different," he explained.
He added, "It's a feeling that's tough to describe. But it's the reason why at 40 I'm still pushing myself, pushing the limit, practising hard in the off-season, it's to live those moments." This mindset has propelled him to three Grand Slam titles—the 2014 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, and 2016 US Open—each achieved by defeating the then ATP number one in the finals.
Next Challenge: A Clash with Taylor Fritz
Looking ahead, Wawrinka will face world number nine Taylor Fritz in the third round. Fritz, who advanced with a 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (4) win over Vit Kopriva, expressed admiration for his upcoming opponent. "I'm excited for it. I think it will be a fun match. I've looked up to Stan for a long time. I know he's playing well. I practised with him in Perth at the United Cup. His average time on court per match this year has to be something insane because even at the United Cup he was battling long three-setters every match. It's so impressive the level and just the physicality he's still bringing," Fritz remarked.
Legacy and Reflections on Retirement
As Wawrinka approaches the end of his professional journey, he reflects on a career filled with remarkable achievements. In a previous interview with The Guardian, he shared his philosophy on retirement, stating, "At the end, I really believe that I squeezed the lemon until the last drop. And that, for me, is the most important, because that's the only way I can leave this sport without any regrets. There's always some small regrets: 'In that match, oh, I should have done better,' or whatever. But in general, I don't have regrets, because I know that I did the most of it."
This historic win at the Australian Open not only adds to his legacy but also inspires fans and fellow players alike. With his unwavering spirit and record-breaking performances, Stan Wawrinka continues to prove that age is just a number in the world of tennis.
