If given the chance to bring one tennis legend back from retirement to compete in today’s era, there are many worthy candidates to consider. Yet, one name that stands out for a combination of sheer power, resilience, and memorable triumphs is Stan Wawrinka. Known as much for his explosive groundstrokes as his steely resolve, Wawrinka’s legacy in tennis offers a rich tapestry of remarkable achievements and compelling moments that resonate long after his prime years.

Stan Wawrinka, born in 1985 in Switzerland, emerged alongside the Greats—Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic—to carve a distinctive path in an era dominated by titanic rivalries. He was not just Federer’s compatriot but a fierce competitor in his own right, with a career defined by moments of brilliance and a playing style that combined raw power with tactical ingenuity. His backhand, often cited as one of the best in the history of the sport, could turn matches around in an instant.

Wawrinka’s rise to Grand Slam glory was something of an underdog story. For years, he was viewed as a talented player who occasionally threatened but rarely delivered on the biggest stages. That perception shattered in 2014, when Wawrinka captured his first major title at the Australian Open. Facing Novak Djokovic, then ranked world No. 2, Wawrinka’s game came together in spectacular fashion. The epic five-set battle ended with Wawrinka prevailing 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, a victory that announced his arrival among tennis’s elite and stunned fans worldwide.

This breakthrough was more than just a single triumph. It signaled a period in which Wawrinka consistently challenged and sometimes overcame the sport’s top players, known collectively as the “Big Three” (Djokovic, Federer, and Rafael Nadal). In 2015, at the French Open—Roland Garros—Wawrinka truly cemented his legacy. On the clay of Paris, where Nadal’s dominance is legendary, Wawrinka defeated Djokovic in a grueling four-set final (4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4). This win was especially noteworthy because clay was Wawrinka’s least favored surface, yet he used his powerful baseline game and a newfound strategic patience to dismantle Djokovic’s defense. This victory underscored his ability to rise to the occasion under immense pressure.

The Swiss star’s third Grand Slam title, and his final one, came at the 2016 US Open. Once again, Djokovic stood across the net from Wawrinka in the championship match. In a tense contest marked by momentum shifts and high drama, Wawrinka prevailed in four sets—6-7(1), 6-4, 7-5, 6-3—delivering a performance that merged raw power with mental fortitude. This victory was emblematic of his career, characterized by resilience and an uncanny ability to perform in clutch moments.

Wawrinka’s impact on tennis goes beyond his titles. He was part of an era defined by relentless competition and evolving playing styles, where power baseline play and physical fitness became paramount. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, including knee surgery that sidelined him from competition for extended periods, his persistence in returning to form demonstrated his dedication. Furthermore, his contributions to Swiss tennis extended outside individual tournaments—he, along with Federer, propelled Switzerland to Davis Cup success, winning the prestigious team event in 2014.

Adding an intriguing historical context, Wawrinka’s career unfolded in an epoch that has often been called one of tennis’s golden eras. The dominance of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic has sometimes overshadowed other talents, but Wawrinka challenged this narrative by winning majors and striking fear into the top-ranked players. His triumphs challenged the perception that only the Big Three could win Slam events for nearly a decade, providing thrilling upsets and demonstrating that perseverance and peak mental focus can disrupt even the tightest hierarchies.

Imagine if we could press the pause button on time and revive Wawrinka to compete today, amidst the current crop of stars. How would his formidable groundstrokes fare against the modern power arms of Alexander Zverev, the relentless consistency of Daniil Medvedev, or the fresh talent like Carlos Alcaraz? Would his tactical prowess and fierce determination still allow him to upset the established order, or would the physical demands of today’s game—marked by even fiercer athleticism and younger competitors—pose a daunting challenge? His presence would surely add excitement and unpredictability, rekindling the fierce battle for supremacy that defined his playing days.

In addition to his technical prowess, Wawrinka embodied the spirit of a true competitor and a sportsman—willing to push through setbacks and pain to reach his goals. Those qualities gave him a unique aura, one that earned him the respect of peers and fans alike. Though he stepped away from the highest level of competition due to recurring injuries and a desire to preserve his health, his career remains a shining example of overcoming hurdles to reach the pinnacle in a sport where margins are agonizingly thin.

To bring Stan Wawrinka back into the fold of professional tennis would be to invite a story of grit, power, and moments of sheer magic. His blend of technical mastery, mental resilience, and unforgettable victories ensures his place among the memorable tennis legends of the modern age. Reflecting on his legacy offers a reminder that sometimes, it’s not just about the number of titles but the spirit displayed in quest of them—making Wawrinka a compelling choice for any tennis fan’s dream comeback.

So if you could pick any retired legend to see back on the court, who would you choose? Wawrinka’s story of breakthrough triumphs and relentless fighting spirit makes him an enthralling candidate to reignite the excitement of tennis at the highest level once more.