Wawrinka Triumphs to Extend Australian Open Journey in Farewell Appearance
In a gripping performance, Stan Wawrinka defeated Serbia’s Laslo Djere at the Australian Open, marking a pivotal moment in his final season. The match concluded with scores of 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) before a supportive Kia Arena audience.
Wawrinka’s Final Australian Open Journey
At 40 years old, Wawrinka is in his farewell season. His victory against Djere came after a challenging match lasting 3 hours and 20 minutes. Despite facing 18 break points, he managed to convert only three, showcasing both persistence and skill.
A Grateful Champion Reflects
Following the match, Wawrinka expressed his gratitude, saying, “It was amazing today.” He acknowledged his long journey, stating, “It’s my last year. It’s been too long that I’m coming back, but the passion is still intact.” He also admitted the need for caution regarding his competitive edge.
Match Highlights
- Wawrinka, ranked 139, faced off against 92nd-ranked Djere.
- Despite losing the opening set, he dominated the subsequent sets.
- The final set went to a tiebreak, where his experience shone through.
He acknowledged Djere’s capabilities, recalling their last encounter when he lost. “He’s a great player… I expected a tough match today,” Wawrinka remarked.
Wawrinka’s Career Achievements
Wawrinka has had a remarkable career, winning three Grand Slam titles:
- Australian Open: 2014
- French Open: 2015
- US Open: 2016
Interestingly, these triumphs occurred during an era dominated by tennis legends Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. Wawrinka boasts a total of 16 career ATP titles, with his most recent win occurring in Geneva in 2017.
Legacy and Future
Beyond singles titles, he claimed Olympic gold in doubles with Federer in 2008 and led Switzerland to their first Davis Cup victory in 2014. As Wawrinka continues his final journey at the Australian Open, fans and players alike celebrate his contributions to the sport.
