Stan Wawrinka has officially declared that the 2026 season will mark his retirement from professional tennis. At 40 years old and currently ranked No. 157 in the world, Wawrinka’s recent performances have seen him achieve only four victories on the ATP tour throughout 2025. However, the Swiss maestro remains determined to conclude his illustrious career on his own terms.
In an emotional message shared on social media, Wawrinka reflected on his journey, stating, “One last push. 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.” He emphasized his desire to push his limits and end his professional path on a high note, stating, “I still have dreams in this sport. I’ve enjoyed every part of what tennis has given me, especially the emotions I feel playing in front of you. I’m looking forward to seeing you one more time, all around the world.”
Wawrinka, who turned professional in 2002, is widely recognized as a three-time Grand Slam singles champion. He made history by defeating the world’s top-ranked players in all three of his Grand Slam finals: he claimed the title against Rafael Nadal at the 2014 Australian Open, overcame Novak Djokovic at the 2015 French Open, and triumphed over Djokovic again at the 2016 U.S. Open. Additionally, he gave a strong performance as the runner-up to Nadal at the 2017 French Open.
As he gears up for his final tour, tennis fans around the globe will undoubtedly look to celebrate the legacy of this remarkable athlete, whose contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark. Wawrinka’s decision to retire also underlines the impact of time and the relentless nature of competition in professional sports, where even the greatest of champions must eventually hang up their racquets.
