Stan Wawrinka’s journey through professional tennis is a testament to perseverance, power, and remarkable resilience. At 40 years old, the Swiss player continues to compete on the ATP Tour, demonstrating not just longevity but a spirited passion that many younger players aspire to.

Wawrinka’s rise to prominence didn’t happen overnight. Born in 1985 in Lausanne, Switzerland, he initially struggled to outshine some of the era’s dominant Swiss talents, including Roger Federer. Early in his career, Wawrinka was often seen as the talented underdog, overshadowed by Federer’s meteoric rise. However, what distinguished Wawrinka was his ability to continually evolve and refine his game. Known for his explosive one-handed backhand—considered one of the best in tennis—and powerful baseline play, he gradually carved out an identity on the tour as a fierce competitor capable of challenging even the most formidable opponents.

His breakthrough on the Grand Slam stage came in 2014 when he captured the Australian Open title, defeating Rafael Nadal in a gripping final. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable stretch that included two more major titles at the French Open in 2015 and the US Open in 2016. Contrary to some earlier misstatements, Wawrinka has never won Wimbledon. His biggest triumphs have come on hard courts and clay, surfaces that suit his heavy groundstrokes and fighting style. His career-high ranking peaked at No. 3 in the world during 2014, reflecting his status as one of the top players in a generation dominated by the likes of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic.

Wawrinka’s career is also notable for his mental toughness and ability to elevate his game in critical moments. Often labeled as a “big-match player,” he has a knack for hitting his peak during Grand Slams, where pressure and intensity are at their highest. His 2014 Australian Open and 2015 French Open victories involved epic encounters with top-ranked rivals, showcasing not only his skills but his resolve.

Off the court, Wawrinka is recognized for his calm demeanor and meticulous preparation. His work ethic and commitment to fitness, especially after battling injuries, have contributed to his relatively extended career, a feat few manage to sustain at an elite level into their late 30s and beyond. Despite some injuries that sidelined him for portions of past seasons, his comeback efforts have been impressive, reflecting a deep-rooted love for the game.

In 2025, while he is no longer consistently competing at the very highest level, Wawrinka remains active, mainly on the ATP Challenger Tour, a proving ground for players looking to regain form or break through rankings. He recently made a notable run at the Aix-en-Provence Challenger event, narrowly missing the title in a heart-stopping third-set tiebreak against Borna Ćorić. This serves as a reminder that his competitive spirit remains intact, and even as he sits outside the top 150 in the rankings, he can still push younger opponents to their limits.

Historically, Wawrinka was part of a golden generation of Swiss tennis players who helped elevate the country’s profile on the international stage. Alongside Federer and doubles maestro Martina Hingis, he contributed to Switzerland’s Davis Cup victories and frequently represented his nation with pride. His leather-grip, classic one-handed backhand often drew admiration from tennis purists who saw him as a throwback to a more traditional style amidst the baseline-heavy, power-centric era.

Looking ahead, it’s clear Wawrinka’s goal isn’t to chase rankings endlessly but to savor the remaining chapters of his career, inspiring fans with flashes of brilliance and workmanlike performances. Many seasoned players in tennis today, such as Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer during the twilight of their careers, have shown that the sport allows room for longevity when combined with adaptability and passion.

Wawrinka’s story is not just one of athletic achievement but also one of character growth. From being the Swiss player overshadowed by a legend, he matured into a Grand Slam champion and a respected veteran known for his generosity and sportsmanship. His rivals often commend his integrity and professionalism, traits that have endeared him to fans around the world.

In tennis, where fleeting moments can decide entire careers, Wawrinka has repeatedly demonstrated that it’s not just about winning but about the fight, the effort, and the heart behind every shot. As coach Nick Bollettieri once noted, “Tennis is a game of inches.” For Wawrinka, every inch gained over his career represents countless hours of training, resilience after setbacks, and dedication to being competitive on the world’s biggest stages.

Even at 40, Wawrinka’s game is infused with that same fire. While the threat of retirement looms in many tennis veterans’ futures, Wawrinka seems intent on squeezing out all the remaining ace performances from his racket. Whether on Challenger courts or occasional ATP main draws, fans can expect him to continue testing his mettle with the powerful groundstrokes and strategic play that have defined his journey.

The future may be uncertain, but one thing is clear: Stan Wawrinka has earned lasting admiration not only for his trophies but for his unwavering spirit. In a sport often dominated by heavyweight rivalries, he carved his unique path—one that blends power, finesse, and heart—making him an enduring and fascinating figure in tennis history.