Stan Wawrinka’s final season on the Tour started on a positive note at the United Cup.
The Swiss legend, who is set to retire from his playing career at the end of 2026, performed admirably throughout the event as Switzerland reached the final.
Following his nation’s loss to Poland, Wawrinka has turned his attention to the Australian Open; the tournament where he won his first Grand Slam title in 2014.
Wawrinka was finally given a wildcard spot for the tournament after being left in limbo over the last month.
The length of time it took for Wawrinka to receive a wildcard bewildered tennis fans and players alike, with Belinda Bencic recently saying she was not sure what the Australian Open organisers were ‘waiting for.’
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That saga is now over, and the Australian Open Tournament Director has sent the Swiss superstar a heartwarming message on social media.
Craig Tiley’s message to Stan Wawrinka
Craig Tiley is the Chief Executive Officer [CEO] of Tennis Australia and the Australian Open Tournament Director.
Tiley [pictured below], who has been the Australian Open Tournament Director since 2006, took some time to meet with Stan Wawrinka ahead of his final appearance in Melbourne.
On X [formerly Twitter], Tiley said: “Making his 20th appearance at the Australian Open, this time with a well-earned wildcard.
“Wishing the 2014 champion a happy fortnight. Great to see you Stan Wawrinka.”
Wawrinka, the 2014 Australian Open champion, was understandably excited upon receiving the news of his wildcard entry.
“It’s amazing. I’m super grateful to receive a wild card to play the Australian Open in my last year on tour,” said Wawrinka, as per the ATP Tour.
“Special thanks to Tennis Australia and Craig Tiley for this amazing opportunity. I have so many great memories of the past 20 years in Melbourne.
“It’s always special to go back to where I won my first Grand Slam. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Stan Wawrinka’s Australian Open record
Wawrinka has a rich history at the Australian Open; he has a 48-13 record at the event.
The 2014 Australian Open champion first made his debut at the event in 2004, losing in the first round of qualifying to Brazil’s Marcos Daniel, 6-4, 6-4.
Two years later, Wawrinka made his main draw debut at the event. He defeated Albert Montanes before losing to David Nalbandian in the second round.
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Eight years later, Wawrinka won his first Grand Slam title at the tournament, defeating Rafael Nadal in the final.
Wawrinka made his last appearance at the event in 2025, losing in the first round to Lorenzo Sonego.
Wawrinka will make tennis history when he competes at the 2026 event, and one can only hope his last stand at the event brings fans in Australia to their feet.
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