Wawrinka's Historic Achievement at the Australian Open
In a display of sheer determination and remarkable longevity, Stan Wawrinka has etched his name in tennis history. At the age of 40, the Swiss maestro became the first man 40 or older to reach the third round of a Grand Slam since the Australian Open in 1978, when the legendary Ken Rosewall achieved the feat at 44.
The Epic Five-Set Battle
Wawrinka's journey to the third round of the 2026 Australian Open was far from easy. He faced 21-year-old French qualifier Arthur Gea in a grueling 4.5-hour, five-set encounter that ultimately became the longest match of the tournament. The final score read 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (3) in favor of Wawrinka.
Crucial Moments and Player Resilience
Both players had their chances to end the match earlier. Wawrinka held a break advantage in the fifth set but couldn't capitalize. Gea, on the other hand, struggled with cramps in the decisive tiebreaker, which significantly affected his performance. Despite the physical toll, both competitors showed incredible resilience, converting only four of their break-point chances throughout the match.
Wawrinka's Reflections and Recovery Plans
After the match, Wawrinka expressed his exhaustion but also his gratitude. "Exhausted!" he admitted during the on-court interview. "As I told you, it's my last Australian Open, so I'm trying to last as long as possible." The crowd, predominantly behind the Swiss veteran, provided him with immense energy.
Fitness and Recovery
Wawrinka, who announced his retirement plans last month, emphasized his confidence in his fitness level. "I have good confidence in my fitness level that I can handle those long matches. For me, that's not a problem to really keep it up with the level. Today was again a big battle," he said. When asked about his recovery strategy for the next round against No. 9 Taylor Fritz, Wawrinka humorously mentioned, "I'll pick up a beer. I deserve one!"
Gea's Valuable Lessons
For Arthur Gea, the match was an invaluable learning experience. "It was an incredible experience," he said. "I will take time to analyze everything. But yeah, it was cool." Going to five sets for the first time, Gea will undoubtedly take many lessons from this intense encounter with Wawrinka.
Wawrinka's Legacy and Impact
Stan Wawrinka's career has been marked by significant achievements, including being a three-time major winner and the 2014 Australian Open champion. His ability to perform at such a high level at 40 speaks volumes about his dedication and passion for the sport. This particular match adds another feather to his already illustrious cap.
A Look Back at Wawrinka's Career
Wawrinka has contested 49 five-set matches at Grand Slams, more than any other player, with a record of 26 wins and 23 losses. His performance at the 2026 Australian Open is a testament to his enduring spirit and competitive drive.
The Significance of the Achievement
Becoming the first man 40 or older to reach the third round of a Grand Slam since 1978 is no small feat. It underscores the incredible physical and mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level of tennis, especially at an age when most athletes have long retired.
Comparisons with Ken Rosewall
Ken Rosewall, a true legend of the sport, achieved this milestone 48 years prior at the age of 44. Comparing Wawrinka's performance to Rosewall's is a testament to the high standards set by the Australian great and highlights Wawrinka's place among the all-time greats.
Looking Ahead to the Third Round
Wawrinka's next opponent will be No. 9 seed Taylor Fritz, who advanced with a comfortable victory over Vit Kopriva. Fritz expressed his admiration for Wawrinka, saying, "Looked up to Stan for a long time. I know he's playing well. It's so impressive the level and just the physicality he's"
Final Thoughts
As Wawrinka prepares for his final Australian Open, his performance is not just about the result but also about the legacy he leaves behind. His ability to inspire younger generations and push the boundaries of what is possible in tennis is a testament to his greatness.
