As the tennis season heats up, fans around the world are gearing up for the much-anticipated Laver Cup in San Francisco. Since its inception in 2017, this event has rapidly become a fixture on the tennis calendar, showcasing not just top-level competition but a unique team format that pits Europe against the rest of the world. By blending the intensity of a Ryder Cup-style team competition with some of the sport’s biggest stars, the Laver Cup provides a refreshing change from the traditional solo battles seen throughout the year.

This year’s tournament is no different, with a star-studded lineup ready to entertain and inspire. Among the players, Jakub Mensik has caught the attention of the tennis community with flashes of brilliance, despite a somewhat inconsistent season. Ranked outside the top tier for much of the year, Mensik’s rise and potential to disrupt the status quo make him an intriguing figure for this tournament’s narrative. The Laver Cup’s team environment often brings out unexpected heroes, and many fans will be watching to see if Mensik can rise to the occasion.

However, as excitement builds around the roster, some fans find themselves contemplating the absence of another notable competitor: Stan Wawrinka. The Swiss veteran, now 40 years old, continues to defy time and odds by competing at a high level, recently making deep runs in Challenger events and ATP tournaments. Wawrinka’s longevity is remarkable, given the physical demands of modern tennis and the influx of younger talent. Even as he trails the peak form of his prime days, his ability to challenge top players and his history of Grand Slam triumphs make him a compelling figure.

Wawrinka’s absence at the Laver Cup—particularly after not receiving an invitation following Roger Federer’s retirement in 2022—has spurred debate among tennis aficionados. Three years ago, the event was graced by the presence of legends like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray, who joined Federer in a celebration of tennis greatness. Wawrinka’s exclusion from that moment, and from this year’s event, leaves many speculating on what could have been had he been part of the mix.

Historically, the Laver Cup is named after Rod Laver, an Australian tennis icon and the only player to have won the calendar-year Grand Slam twice (in 1962 and 1969). The event pays homage to competitive spirit and the pursuit of excellence, values epitomized by players like Wawrinka, who won three Grand Slam titles himself—the 2014 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, and 2016 US Open. These titles underscore his ability to perform on the biggest stages, defeating the crème de la crème of the tennis world in compelling matches.

Since the tournament’s launch, the Laver Cup has been praised for its unique format. Unlike regular ATP events, it features a three-day competition where players earn increasing points for each victory as the event progresses, adding strategic depth and excitement. Its teams—Team Europe and Team World—are captained by tennis legends Björn Borg and John McEnroe, respectively, whose storied rivalry adds another layer of drama and camaraderie to the proceedings. The presence of such iconic captains often motivates players to elevate their game, creating moments of high drama and camaraderie rarely seen in individual tennis competitions.

While nostalgia surrounds the idea of Wawrinka playing alongside or against current stars, it’s important to remember that the Laver Cup also embodies the spirit of giving emerging talents a spotlight. This year’s roster balances seasoned champions with rising stars like Mensik, ensuring a blend of experience and youthful energy. Such diversity maintains the event’s vibrancy and promises captivating matches.

The absence of some players inevitably sparks “what if” scenarios, but the Laver Cup reminds us that tennis is an evolving sport where every player—whether a Grand Slam champion or an up-and-comer—has a chance to contribute to unforgettable moments. Wawrinka’s resilience and competitive fire exemplify the qualities the tournament celebrates, even if he isn’t on the court this time.

Beyond the competition, the event encourages camaraderie and sportsmanship—a sharp contrast to the often cold and individualistic nature of professional tennis. Players mingle freely, strategize as a team, and sometimes even offer support to opponents in ways rarely seen during the regular tour calendar. This camaraderie can sometimes lead to surprising on-court alliances and memorable moments that linger long after the final point.

As the Laver Cup unfolds in San Francisco, fans are reminded that it is more than just a tennis tournament. It embodies the rich history of the sport, the fierce competitiveness of its players, and the joyful spirit of collective team effort. Even without certain veterans like Wawrinka, the event serves as a platform where ambition, talent, and legacy intersect in thrilling fashion.

Perhaps the greatest takeaway from the Laver Cup experience is the affirmation of John McEnroe’s words: “When you’re on the court, it’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about the fight.” This mentality captures the essence of the tournament and tennis itself, where every match is a battle and every point a testament to resolve.

So, while tennis enthusiasts debate who should or shouldn’t have made the lineup, the Laver Cup remains a celebration of the sport’s past, present, and future. Whether it’s a rising star like Jakub Mensik, a legendary figure such as Federer or Nadal, or even a missed participant like Wawrinka, the tournament continues to captivate and inspire. In the end, it’s the spirit of competition and passion for the game that unites players and fans alike in this unique and exhilarating spectacle.