Swiss tennis legend Stan Wawrinka is set to make his 19th appearance at the Australian Open in 2025 after being granted a wildcard entry. As the 2014 champion and one of the most decorated players of his era, Wawrinka’s inclusion in the Melbourne tournament underscores both his enduring passion for the sport and his determination to leave a lasting impact on tennis.
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A Journey of Consistency and Greatness
Wawrinka’s career at the Australian Open has been marked by highs and lows, but his 2014 triumph over Rafael Nadal remains one of the most iconic moments in tournament history. Defying the odds, Wawrinka overcame Nadal in four sets (6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3) to claim his maiden Grand Slam title, a victory that cemented his place among the sport’s elite.
Returning to Melbourne for the 19th time, Wawrinka will join an exclusive club of players with the most main-draw appearances at the Australian Open. According to OptaAce, only Roger Federer (21 appearances), Novak Djokovic, Feliciano Lopez, and Lleyton Hewitt (20 appearances each) have more.
This remarkable milestone is a testament to Wawrinka’s longevity and resilience, even as his ATP ranking has slipped to 161. At 39 years old, Wawrinka remains committed to competing at the highest level, even as contemporaries like Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray prepare for their own retirements.
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A Legacy of Grand Slam Excellence
Stan Wawrinka’s Grand Slam journey extends far beyond Melbourne. After his breakthrough in Australia, he went on to capture the French Open in 2015 and the US Open in 2016, defeating Novak Djokovic in both finals.
Wawrinka’s powerful groundstrokes, particularly his one-handed backhand, have long been his trademark. His ability to step up on the biggest stages has earned him three Grand Slam titles and a reputation as one of tennis’s fiercest competitors.
Reflecting on his career, Wawrinka remains motivated by the sport he loves. “Tennis is my passion. As long as I can compete and enjoy it, I will keep going,” he said.
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The Challenges of Recent Years
The past few seasons have been challenging for Wawrinka. In 2024, he suffered early exits in all four Grand Slam events, including first-round losses at the Australian and US Opens. However, these setbacks have not deterred his commitment to the game.
“Setbacks are part of every journey,” Wawrinka said. “What matters is how you respond to them. For me, it’s about staying positive and working hard.”
Despite these struggles, Wawrinka’s wildcard entry into the 2025 Australian Open offers a chance to reignite his career and showcase his experience on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Joining an Exclusive Club
With 19 appearances at the Australian Open, Wawrinka will join some of the greatest names in tennis in longevity at the tournament. Here’s how he stacks up:
- Roger Federer (21 appearances): The Swiss maestro leads the pack with the most main-draw appearances in Australian Open history.
- Novak Djokovic (20 appearances): A 10-time Australian Open champion, Djokovic’s dominance on hard courts is unparalleled.
- Feliciano Lopez (20 appearances): Known for his longevity, Lopez has been a fixture in Grand Slam tournaments for over two decades.
- Lleyton Hewitt (20 appearances): The Australian icon thrilled home crowds with his tenacity and fighting spirit throughout his career.
Wawrinka’s Grand Slam Record
Wawrinka’s three Grand Slam titles place him among tennis’s all-time greats. Here’s a closer look at his major final appearances:
| Result | Year | Tournament | Surface | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Win | 2014 | Australian Open | Hard | Rafael Nadal | 6–3, 6–2, 3–6, 6–3 |
| Win | 2015 | French Open | Clay | Novak Djokovic | 4–6, 6–4, 6–3, 6–4 |
| Win | 2016 | US Open | Hard | Novak Djokovic | 6–7(1), 6–4, 7–5, 6–3 |
| Loss | 2017 | French Open | Clay | Rafael Nadal | 2–6, 3–6, 1–6 |
Looking Ahead to 2025
The 2025 Australian Open promises to be a landmark event, with Wawrinka taking the court alongside the likes of Novak Djokovic, who will seek an 11th title in Melbourne, and rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Wawrinka’s wealth of experience and love for the game could make him a dangerous opponent, even as he competes against younger, higher-ranked players. “I’m ready to give my best and enjoy every moment on the court,” he said.
As tennis fans prepare to witness another chapter in Wawrinka’s storied career, his journey serves as an inspiration. Longevity, passion, and determination define his legacy, and his return to Melbourne is a reminder of the indomitable spirit that drives the greatest athletes.
