Stan Wawrinka is gearing up to play what will be his last-ever Monte Carlo Masters event, with his campaign getting underway tomorrow.
He will face Sebastian Baez of Argentina, who poses a tricky first-round threat for the legendary veteran.
However, should he manage to bypass the clay-court specialist, an opportunity has arisen for Stan Wawrinka to have one of his dreams come true.
At least, that’s what he said just last week when discussing the prospect of facing Carlos Alcaraz.
Stan Wawrinka’s dream for 2026
Discussing the Spaniard after his wildcard in Monte Carlo had been announced, Wawrinka outlined his desire to face the world number one before he retires at the end of 2026.
He told Spazio Tennis: “If I’m honest, I’d like to face Carlos. I’ve played Jannik many times, so I would like to have a different experience.
Stan Wawrinka or Andy Murray… who is the greater player? Let us know why below 👇
“We can call it a small dream for this year — it would be exciting to be on the other side of the net against a player like that.”
Well, with the Monte Carlo draw having been released, that could be about to become a reality.
If Wawrinka beats Baez, Alcaraz will be waiting for him in the second round, ready to fulfil that dream.
Carlos Alcaraz’s draw for the Monte Carlo Masters is revealed
Wawrinka has been practising with Gael Monfils ahead of the Monte Carlo Masters, clearly seeking to prepare himself for the trickery that Alcaraz will bring to their potential match-up.
However, the 22-year-old will likely be looking way ahead of the 40-year-old, with aspirations of defending the title he won with ease in 2025.
How will Carlos Alcaraz fare after receiving this draw in Monte-Carlo?
It's far easier than Jannik Sinner's…
Alcaraz has been given a bye through the first round, and as we know, will face the winner of Baez and Wawrinka in round two.
He is then due to face Frances Tiafoe in the third round, and either Jiri Lehecka, fresh from his run to the final in Miami, or Alexander Bublik in the quarter-finals.
Then, Lorenzo Musetti should await him in the semi-finals, which would be a repeat of last year’s final here.
Naturally, Jannik Sinner should be waiting in the final.
