A lot of confidence despite being away from Melbourne: Wawrinka (38) is already thinking about next year

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Ten years ago, Stan Wawrinka (38) marched to his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open with stunning victories over Novak Djokovic (36) and Rafael Nadal (37). The fans in Melbourne have not forgotten that. In his 18th participation Down Under, the man with the retro backhand is once again put in the spotlight.

But against Adrian Mannarino (35, ATP 19), who is only three years younger but hardly ever ranked, even a 2-1 lead in the set is not enough. Wawrinka was eliminated from the match against the Frenchman in five sets (4:6, 6:3, 7:5, 3:6, 0:6).

Romand, who turns 39 in March, said afterwards that he was sad. At the same time, you also feel a certain satisfaction with him at the press conference. Wawrinka is happy that his body is still strong. He seems to have survived well the fracture in his right foot that he suffered at the beginning of November in Metz (Friday), even if his strength was not sufficient due to the time lost in preparation, as he says: “Despite everything, I am happy, just like the last ones here in Australia lasted ten days. I was able to train well and was generally at a good level again.” Wawrinka trained with Carlos Alcaraz (20), among others.

“I hope I come back here again”

When asked about possible thoughts about retiring this year, the oldest player in the top 100 said: “The place where I am now makes me very positive. Even after this defeat today, I feel like I can still push myself and get good results. And I hope to come back here next year.”

He leaves it open where Wawrinka will make the next ATP tour. However, fans should be able to see him again by mid-February at the latest: the three-time Grand Slam winner plans to compete in Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.

Source : Blick