Is Wawrinka's Age a Challenge as He Fights Into the Second Round?

Stan Wawrinka's recent victory at the Australian Open marks a significant moment in his storied career, as he progresses in what he has described as his farewell tour. The 40-year-old Swiss tennis player battled through a challenging first-round match against Serbia's Laslo Djere, winning 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4). This win is notable not only because it is his first Grand Slam victory since Wimbledon 2024, but also because it comes 12 years after he claimed his first Grand Slam title at the same tournament by defeating Rafael Nadal in 2014.

Last updated: 18 January 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Wawrinka's performance against Djere has reignited interest in his journey as he approaches retirement in 2026. His resilience on the court, particularly at this stage of his career, showcases his enduring passion for tennis. He is joined in the second round by fellow veteran Marin Cilic, who also displayed impressive form by defeating Daniel Altmaier with a score of 6-0, 6-0, 7-6 (6-3). Both players represent a generation of tennis that is gradually moving towards retirement, yet their competitive spirit remains strong.

Key takeaways

• Wawrinka's win marks his first at a Grand Slam since Wimbledon 2024.
• At 40 years old, he is the second oldest player to win a men’s singles match at the Australian Open.
• Cilic's dominant performance highlights the capability of veteran players to compete at high levels.

Timeline: how we got here

Wawrinka made his main-draw debut at the Australian Open in 2003. Here’s a brief timeline of important milestones in his career leading to this year's tournament:

• 2014: Wawrinka wins his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open by defeating Rafael Nadal.
• 2024: Last Grand Slam win prior to the current tournament, at Wimbledon.
• 2026: Announced retirement at the end of the season, as he participates in his final Australian Open.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Wawrinka's victory against Djere has sparked discussions around the capabilities of older players in the sport. His emotional reflections after the match suggest a deep connection to his career, indicating that while he is preparing to retire, he still possesses the drive to compete at a high level.

What was already established

Wawrinka has been a formidable competitor in tennis, known for his powerful playing style and mental toughness. His previous successes, including three Grand Slam titles, have solidified his legacy in the sport, while his ongoing determination reinforces his status as a respected athlete even as he nears retirement.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Wawrinka's matches attract significant viewers, contributing to the cultural fabric of tennis in the UK. His presence at the Australian Open adds excitement for fans and can influence interest in tennis as a sport, potentially affecting viewership and engagement in upcoming tournaments.

Businesses and jobs

Events like the Australian Open create economic opportunities through tourism, hospitality, and broadcasting. As veteran players like Wawrinka and Cilic compete, they highlight the ongoing relevance of tennis in the sporting landscape, which can affect jobs related to event management and sports media.

Policy and regulation

The sport’s governing bodies continue to adapt regulations to accommodate older players. This ongoing evolution in tennis policy makes it crucial for the sport to remain accessible to athletes of all ages, promoting inclusivity and longevity in professional tennis careers.

Numbers that matter

• 40 years and 296 days: Wawrinka's age during his first-round victory, making him the second oldest to win a match at the Australian Open.
• 3 hours and 20 minutes: Duration of Wawrinka's first-round match against Djere.
• 6-0, 6-0: Cilic's score against Altmaier in the first two sets, showcasing his dominance.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Grand Slam: A major tennis tournament, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open.
• Wildcard: A special entry granted to a player, allowing them to compete in a tournament despite not qualifying through traditional means.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should monitor upcoming matches featuring Wawrinka and Cilic as they progress through the tournament. Their performances could inspire younger players and reignite interest in veteran participation.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the 2026 season progresses, Wawrinka's farewell tour may influence attendance and engagement at tennis events, potentially impacting ticket sales and promotional strategies for future tournaments.

Signals to watch

• Performance of veteran players in upcoming Grand Slam events.
• Media coverage and public interest in Wawrinka's last season.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on match schedules and results to support veteran players.
• Engage with community events related to tennis to promote the sport.

Don’t

• Dismiss the contributions of veteran players in the current tennis landscape.
• Underestimate the emotional impact of retirement on long-serving athletes.

Checklist

• Follow upcoming matches for Wawrinka and Cilic.
• Consider attending local tennis events to support the sport.
• Engage with online platforms discussing tennis-related content.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Wawrinka's current form is promising, injuries are a constant risk for older athletes, which could affect his performance as the tournament progresses. Additionally, the emotional toll of retirement can influence an athlete's mindset and performance, making it important to approach predictions with caution.

Bottom line

Wawrinka's ongoing participation in the Australian Open not only highlights his remarkable career but also serves as an inspiration for many. As he navigates his farewell tour, the tennis community can learn about resilience, passion, and the enduring spirit of competition.

FAQs

What is Stan Wawrinka's significance in tennis history?

Stan Wawrinka is notable for winning three Grand Slam titles and for his powerful playing style. His victory in 2014 at the Australian Open marked his first major title, establishing him as a significant figure in the sport.

How old is Stan Wawrinka now?

As of the current tournament, Stan Wawrinka is 40 years and 296 days old, making him one of the oldest players to compete successfully at the Australian Open.

What does Wawrinka's farewell tour mean for tennis fans?

Wawrinka's farewell tour provides fans with the opportunity to celebrate his contributions to tennis and witness his final performances at major tournaments, highlighting the emotional connection between athletes and their supporters.