Sentiment-Driven Final Dance: The True Reason Wawrinka Continues Competing at Age 41

When Wawrinka announced his impending retirement in December 2025, it felt like an era was drawing to a close. Many fans were not ready to see him put down his racket, and to be honest, he himself did not seem entirely prepared either. In an emotionally charged farewell, Wawrinka mentioned he would make one "final push" in 2026, serving as the last chapter before completely closing the book on his professional career.

When people wondered what kept the 40-year-old going, his answer came from the heart. Yesterday, in the Dubai men's singles round of 16, Wawrinka lost to Medvedev, who secured a 6-2, 6-3 victory and booked a center court quarterfinal spot against Brooksby. Wawrinka, who won the Dubai title in 2016 by defeating Baghdatis, also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the tournament.

"First, I want to thank the tournament... thank you to everyone who has contributed over the years. It's a fantastic event." When asked how he has managed to play for so long, Wawrinka replied: "The reason I've been able to keep going all these years is the emotions I get on the court. I feel that at 41, it's time to play one final year. I'm really enjoying it, and I hope to see some of you again this year. Thank you so much for your support."

The gratitude in his voice resonated with the warmth returned from the stands. Wawrinka's rise coincided with an era dominated by the 'Big Three' of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. Yet, he carved out his own place in history. As the 2008 Beijing Olympics men's doubles gold medalist, Wawrinka repeatedly proved that even sharing the stage with legends, he could be a leading man on his own merit.

However, recent years have not been easy for him, with injuries piling up—surgeries, lengthy rehab periods, and a drop in ranking—he is currently world No. 99. In 2025 alone, he played 17 ATP Tour singles matches, with a record of 4 wins and 13 losses. But entering this season, the Swiss veteran seems to have gathered a renewed sense of strength. Now, in his 24th and final professional year, the one constant remains his pure love for the sport.

At the post-match press conference, Wawrinka spoke fondly about what the Dubai tournament means to him. This week, he first defeated Hassan 7-5, 6-3 before losing to Medvedev. Even in defeat, his focus was more on the event itself: "Yes, it has always been special here. I came here when I first started on the tour; it's one of those stops you always look forward to. Many great players and champions have competed here. It's one of the most important tournaments on the ATP Tour."

Over a career spanning more than two decades, the former world No. 3 has created countless classic moments. Known as "Stan the Man," while he didn't always have the upper hand against the 'Big Three,' he never shied away in crucial moments.

Recalling Dubai, his most memorable experience remains his 2016 title run: "In 2016, I had the chance to win the championship, entering with a wild card. Being able to come back here means a lot to me." That championship trophy remains a significant chapter in his career.

As for this year's loss, he remained gracious: "The ending wasn't the best, but Daniil (Medvedev) is a very strong player and a good friend." This marked Wawrinka's first return to Dubai since a first-round exit in 2017. While there was no fairytale finish, the mutual respect and camaraderie were evident.

This past January, the popular veteran's fairytale run at the Australian Open ended in a touching manner. He fell to Fritz in a hard-fought third-round match. Held at John Cain Arena, it was his final appearance at the Australian Open, and he was moved to tears as he bid farewell to Melbourne.

After the match, he sat on a bench, visibly emotional, quietly taking in the moment. He was then invited to address the crowd that had supported him for two decades, specifically thanking Australian Open CEO Craig Tiley for the wild card opportunity. "Thank you for the wild card invitation; it's not the first time," he admitted, noting that it was this wild card that allowed him to complete his final campaign at Melbourne Park.

He stated that having one last chance to say goodbye was immensely meaningful and praised Tiley for all he has done for tennis, players, and fans. Wawrinka also commended the tournament and its behind-the-scenes staff for making players feel welcome, while facing reality: "Unfortunately, this is the last time I'll be here as a professional player."

Finally, he revealed the reason he has persisted: "The reason I'm still playing is because of you, because of the love for tennis, and the emotions you give me. I'm sad to leave, but it's been an incredible journey."

Over a professional career lasting more than twenty years, he competed extensively against the Big Three and defeated Djokovic and Nadal to win three Grand Slam titles (2014 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, 2016 US Open). When he finally leaves the court, the tennis world will undoubtedly miss this unique champion.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Spark)