The fairytale end to Stan Wawrinka’s career looks set to continue well into 2026.
The Swiss legend, a winner of three Grand Slam singles titles, has defied his age by continuing to compete at the highest level on the ATP Tour.
Wawrinka became one of the oldest players to compete in a Masters 1000 event when he was given a wildcard for the Shanghai Masters – and despite losing his first-round match, Wawrinka won the hearts of tennis fans everywhere.
He later competed in the Athens Open, defeating world number 77 Botic van de Zandschulp and subsequently pushing Italian star Lorenzo Musetti to three sets.
His journey is set to continue next year, with his first tournament being confirmed on Wednesday.
Stan Wawrinka is set to play in the Auckland Open
On Wednesday, Stan Wawrinka’s involvement in the 2026 Auckland Open was revealed in a post on X [Twitter].
The post read: “Stan the man. One of the game’s true greats [*that backhand] and triple Grand Slam champ — the legendary Stan Wawrinka is returning to Auckland after nearly 20 years.”
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Wawrinka, 40, will hope to continue his ATP Tour march when the tournament kicks off in January. His participation is a testament to his will and desire to compete – something for which he should be praised.
Wawrinka could have easily retired years ago and been remembered as a legendary figure within the sport.
However, he chose to carry on. His dedication to the sport has been admirable and many tennis fans will hope to watch Stan Wawrinka on their television screens for the foreseeable future.
Stan Wawrinka’s last appearance in Auckland
Stan Wawrinka made his first appearance at the Auckland Open 18 years ago. The Swiss star, who was not a household name at that point in his career, began the tournament by defeating Tomas Zib 6-3, 6-4.
In the next round, he defeated Alberto Martin 6-2, 6-2 before beating Florian Mayer in straight sets in the quarter-finals.
In the semi-finals, Wawrinka lost to former world number seven Mario Ancic: 6-3, 6-1.
A year later, Wawrinka returned to the event. He lost his opening match to former world number nine Nicolas Almagro: 1-6, 6-4, 6-1.
When Wawrinka arrives in Auckland next year, it will mark his first appearance at the event in 19 years.
