In December 2025, Stan Wawrinka brought an emotional wave across the tennis world with a heartfelt announcement on social media. The Swiss legend confirmed that 2026 would mark the final chapter of his illustrious professional career. A player who carved his name into tennis history with 16 tour-level titles, including three Grand Slam trophies, and a career-high No. 3 ranking in the PIF ATP Rankings, Wawrinka chose his words carefully as he reflected on the journey ahead. “ONE LAST PUSH,” he wrote. “Every book needs an ending. It’s time to write the final chapter of my career as a professional tennis player. 2026 will be my last year on tour.”

While the message carried a sense of closure, it also hinted at something far more powerful - unfinished business. At the 2026 Australian Open, Wawrinka emerged as one of the breakout stories of the opening week, reaching the third round. After registering his second consecutive comeback win at the Australian Open, Wawrinka reiterated his desire to “leave everything on the court,” a mindset that has defined his career for nearly two decades. Now, ahead of beginning his European journey in Montpellier, he opened up about what truly motivates him in his final season. 

“The goal is to be competitive and enjoy myself on the court, as has been the case throughout my career,” Stan Wawrinka said. “I want to soak up this experience alongside all my fans; that’s something I’ve always appreciated, one of the reasons I’ve continued playing for so long. I’d also like to climb back up the rankings and finish the year in the top 100. For me, ending the year in good form and competitive is one of my biggest motivations and goals, without a doubt.”

For a player who once stood among the sport’s elite, a top-100 finish might seem modest on paper. But considering his age, injuries, and the physical demands of modern tennis, it represents a bold and meaningful target.

Has his AO run changed his retirement plans? Given the level he displayed in Australia, questions naturally arose about whether Wawrinka had reconsidered his decision to retire. The Swiss star, however, was quick to shut down any speculation.

“It’s true that I’ve played quite a few matches in Australia at a very high level, and that makes me very happy,” he explained. “It’s given me confidence in what I feel I can do on the court. However, that doesn’t guarantee me results for the rest of the year.”

Wawrinka emphasized the relentless nature of life on tour, particularly for veterans. “We’ll have to fight for wins: every match is tough, difficult, and things can go either way. Whatever happens, regardless of my ranking and results between now and the end of the season, it won’t affect my decision at all.” The clarity in his words reflects a player at peace with his choice, even as he continues to push his limits.

But how has Stan Wawrinka set the roadmap for the rest of the 2026 season? Let’s find out what he has to say on this.

Stan Wawrinka shares his roadmap for the remainder of 2026

Stan Wawrinka’s last-ever Australian Open appearance came to a bittersweet end in the third round, as the Swiss legend bowed out to Taylor Fritz in four sets. Playing in front of a passionate crowd at John Cain Arena, the three-time Grand Slam champion was edged out 7-6 (5), 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, bringing the curtain down on his storied Melbourne Park journey.

Following the match, attention quickly turned to what lies ahead in his farewell year. Asked about his next tournaments during his post-match press conference, Wawrinka offered clarity on his immediate plans. “I’m supposed to play, got a wildcard for Montpellier, Rotterdam in Europe and probably Dubai as well,” he revealed. “I’m super happy and grateful for the opportunity to play those tournaments.”

At the same time, the 40-year-old was candid about the physical demands of life on tour. “For sure going to rest a bit the body. I need to see also how it’s gonna be the next few days, because of course I’m not as fresh as I would like to, but yeah, I’m looking forward for the next tournaments,” he added.

Wawrinka is set to begin his post-Australian Open campaign at the Open Occitanie in Montpellier, scheduled from February 2 to February 8. He will open his run against Serbia’s Hamad Medjedovic. The Rotterdam Open follows immediately after, running from February 9 to 15, before the Dubai Tennis Championships take center stage from February 23 to 28.

Beyond the immediate swing, Wawrinka has also spoken recently about the broader roadmap for his final year on tour. While the desire to play extensively remains strong, he acknowledged that careful planning will be crucial. “I’d like to play the whole season, although it will depend on my age and what I’m able to do,” Wawrinka said. “Having a clear idea is complicated because there are so many tournaments, and everything will depend on rankings and wildcards.”

Grateful for the opportunities that continue to come his way, the Swiss star emphasized that wildcard entries are never taken for granted. “When I receive a wildcard, it makes me very happy, and I’m sincerely grateful to the tournament, but it’s exceptional,” he explained. “My schedule, therefore, will depend on my ranking and my results, although the desire to play more or less a full season is definitely there.”

Amid discussions about his schedule, a fresh announcement has added another emotional chapter to Wawrinka’s farewell tour. The Gstaad Open has officially confirmed his place in this year’s main draw. The news was shared via the event’s Instagram page, with organizers celebrating the return of one of Switzerland’s greatest-ever players.

Adding to the sentiment, a special “farewell party” is planned for July 12, just two days before Wawrinka steps onto the court for his opening match in the Swiss town. The occasion is expected to be a heartfelt tribute, allowing fans to celebrate a hometown hero who has given them countless memories over the years. As Stan Wawrinka moves through the final months of his career, each tournament now carries added significance. Do you think he can finish his 24-year-long pro tennis career with a title triumph?

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallyTennis. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

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