Stan Wawrinka: 2026 will be his final year on the pro tennis tour
Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka confirms 2026 will be his last season on the professional tour, ending a storied career with major titles and Olympic gold.
Swiss star Stan Wawrinka has announced that 2026 will be his final year on the professional tennis tour. He frames it as the closing chapter of a career that produced major titles and lasting memories.
Wawrinka, who turned pro in 2002, has captured 16 ATP titles, including a Masters 1000 crown at Monte Carlo in 2014. He also earned Olympic doubles gold for Switzerland alongside Roger Federer at Beijing 2008. Renowned for his one-handed backhand, he defeated the world No. 1 in each of his three Grand Slam finals—2014 Australian Open, 2015 French Open, and 2016 US Open.
The 40-year-old Swiss star has battled injuries in recent seasons and currently sits outside the top 150 in the rankings. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “One last push. Every book needs an ending. Its time to write the final chapter of my career as a professional tennis player. 2026 will be my last year on tour.”
Wawrinka will turn 41 in March, and despite health setbacks, he says he still wants to push his limits and finish the journey on a high note, with dreams left in the sport and gratitude for the moments he has shared with fans worldwide.
His 2026 campaign will begin at the United Cup team event in Perth, starting January 2, marking the start of what could be a farewell tour for the Swiss star.
Expert perspective
Expert comment: Analysts say the decision signals a respectful and well-planned exit, combining Wawrinka’s storied past with the realities of injuries. They note that a strong early-season effort will be key to ending his career on a high note.
Summary
Wawrinka has publicly framed 2026 as his last season on the tour, a decision rooted in longevity and physical wear. His career highlights include three Grand Slam titles and Olympic gold in doubles, plus a distinctive one-handed backhand that defined an era. Fans will have one final opportunity to witness his competitive spirit as he travels the world in the coming months, beginning in Perth.
Key insight: Wawrinka plans to finish his career with one last push in 2026, a graceful farewell built on a record of major titles and memorable moments.
BBC article
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