Stan Wawrinka refused to let an error hamper his journey to a first Grand Slam title at the 2014 Australian Open.
Wawrinka, who went on to win three Grand Slam titles, defeated Rafael Nadal in the final, denying the Spaniard a second Australian Open title.
Although Nadal was suffering from a back injury and a severely blistered hand, Wawrinka produced some of the best tennis of his career on his way to a 6–3, 6–2, 3–6, 6–3 victory.
Wawrinka’s victory in Australia confirmed his status as one of the best players on the ATP Tour, one who could match the likes of Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.
However, shortly after the final, Wawrinka revealed he was not particularly happy with one aspect of his game.
Stan Wawrinka admitted he was waiting for Nadal to miss during a period of nerves
Speaking to reporters after his landmark victory, Wawrinka revealed he had suffered a bout of nerves midway through the final.
This admission helps to explain why Wawrinka was pegged back by a determined Nadal, who won the third set 6-3.
However, Wawrinka steadied himself before capturing the title.
As per Australian outlet ABC.net, the Swiss star said: “The problem is I didn’t play well because I was waiting for him to miss, and that was a big mistake from myself.
“Because I was nervous, I was like, ‘Okay, miss, miss, make a mistake, because I’m not going to win the match because I’m nervous’.
“I started to realise that I can win the Grand Slam.”
Now aged 40, Wawrinka is continuing to make history, as demonstrated by a recent victory that rivalled an achievement of American legend Jimmy Connors.
Wawrinka loses in ATP Challenger final
On Sunday, 40-year-old Wawrinka was attempting to make more history by becoming the oldest winner of an ATP Challenger title.
Seeded second at the tournament, Wawrinka had won four matches on his way to the final.
Unfortunately for the Swiss legend, he was stopped at the final hurdle by Frenchman Hugo Gaston, who defeated Wawrinka 6-4 6-4.
However, Wawrinka has much to be pleased about. After all, he won 50 ATP points at the tournament, propelling the Swiss player 12 places up the ATP rankings to world number 137.
