Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka has confirmed that 2026 will mark the end of his professional tennis career. Known for his elegant one-handed backhand and fierce competitiveness, the Swiss star revealed his decision in a heartfelt message to fans.
Wawrinka’s announcement
Wawrinka shared his plans on social media, making clear that the upcoming season will be his farewell.
“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 posted.
Currently ranked 157th in the world after battling injuries and knee surgeries, Wawrinka acknowledged that he will likely need wildcards to compete in the Grand Slam events during his final season.
Career highlights
Wawrinka’s career reached its peak with victories at the Australian Open in 2014, the French Open in 2015, and the US Open in 2016. He rose to a career-high ranking of world No 3 and collected 16 ATP titles.
The 40-year-old has achieved notable wins against each member of the sport’s “Big Three” — Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic — and defeated Andy Murray 10 times. His first ATP Tour title came in Umag in 2006, while his last trophy was lifted in Geneva in 2017.
Olympic success and memorable victories
Wawrinka also represented Switzerland at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won doubles gold alongside Federer. His maiden Grand Slam triumph in Melbourne came after a four-set victory over Nadal, earning him the nickname “Grand Slam Stan.”
At Roland Garros in 2015, he stunned then world No 1 Djokovic, and a year later he repeated the feat in New York, defeating the Serbian in four sets to claim his third major.
Philosophy and legacy
Wawrinka has always embraced the motto tattooed on his forearm, a quote from Samuel Beckett: “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.”
Despite recent struggles, he remains passionate about competing. After a first-round exit at the French Open earlier this year, he admitted defeats were harder to accept but insisted his love for the sport endures.
Final season ahead
Wawrinka will begin his farewell campaign at the United Cup in Perth on 2 January 2026. His last year on tour promises to be a celebration of a career defined by resilience, artistry, and unforgettable victories.
Stan Wawrinka in 2025
At the moment ranked no.157, Stan played his last match on the 5th of November when he surrendered to world no.8 Lorenzo Musetti 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4 in the 2nd round in Athens (draw).
This year Stan has achieved an overall 25-23 record. Stan Wawrinka’s best result of the present year was reaching the final in the Aix En Provence Challenger and the Rennes Challenger.