Listen to the article
Wawrinka Bids Emotional Farewell to Australian Open with Beer Toast
Stan Wawrinka raised two beer cans in a final salute to Melbourne Park on Saturday, bringing his Australian Open career to a close with a characteristic blend of class and charisma following his third-round defeat to American Taylor Fritz.
“Cheers everybody! And thank you so much,” the 40-year-old Swiss veteran called out to the crowd after his 7-6 (5), 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 loss to the ninth-seeded Fritz at John Cain Arena.
The defeat marks the end of an era at the tournament where Wawrinka claimed the first of his three Grand Slam titles in 2014, defeating Rafael Nadal in the final. His Australian Open championship was part of a remarkable career that also included titles at the 2015 French Open and 2016 US Open.
Despite announcing that 2026 will be his final season on the professional circuit, Wawrinka has emphasized that his farewell tour isn’t merely ceremonial. His performance in Melbourne demonstrated that competitive fire still burns within the veteran, who made history during this tournament by becoming the first man aged 40 or older to reach the third round of a Grand Slam since Australian legend Ken Rosewall accomplished the feat at the 1978 Australian Open.
“I’m not sure it’s the best statistic to have,” Wawrinka quipped about his age milestone, “but I will take it.”
His second-round victory over 21-year-old French qualifier Arthur Gea was particularly notable, with Wawrinka battling through a grueling 4½-hour, five-set marathon. That match marked his 49th five-setter at major tournaments—establishing yet another record in a career defined by resilience and determination.
Following his final match in Melbourne, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley joined Wawrinka on court for a ceremony that included a tribute video highlighting his achievements over two decades at the tournament.
“Normally we talk on court after a final. Today is not a final, so I won’t make it too long,” Wawrinka told the appreciative crowd. “Thank you for the wildcard invitation… to have one last chance to say goodbye to the people in Melbourne.”
Reflecting on his journey, he added: “It was my last time as a tennis player here, unfortunately. I had so many emotions here the last 20 years. I’m sad to leave, but it’s been an amazing journey.”
Then, in a moment of spontaneous celebration, Wawrinka suggested, “Now I can enjoy. If you don’t mind, I’d like to share a beer with Craig,” before grabbing the beverages from a courtside ice box and toasting with Tiley.
Fritz, who now advances to a fourth-round clash with fifth-seeded Italian Lorenzo Musetti, acknowledged the emotional atmosphere of competing against Wawrinka in his Australian farewell.
“It’s a really, really tough match obviously, the environment as well,” said Fritz, last year’s U.S. Open finalist. “I can’t blame anyone in the crowd for cheering for Stan here. It’s amazing what he’s out here doing. I have so much respect for the passion and the drive that it takes to be doing what he’s doing this week.”
The American delivered a commanding performance against Wawrinka, firing 30 aces with just one double-fault throughout the four-set contest.
Later in the day, 38-year-old Novak Djokovic made history of his own by becoming the first player to win 400 Grand Slam singles matches. The Serbian champion took time to honor Wawrinka, against whom he’s had several memorable battles throughout their careers.
“Proud to call him a friend and a rival and someone that definitely has inspired me,” Djokovic said. “I mean, no doubt with his longevity, with commitment to the game. He’s so passionate about it. He’s a great champion on and off the court. Very likable guy. He did everything the right way, and he deserved every applause he had this tournament.”
Wawrinka’s departure from the Australian Open marks another chapter in the gradual changing of the guard in men’s tennis, as the generation that dominated the sport for nearly two decades gradually makes way for emerging talent.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
5 Comments
A fitting farewell for a true champion of the game. Wawrinka’s grit and determination on the court will be sorely missed. A beer toast is the perfect way to cap off an incredible career at the Aussie Open.
Cheers to Stan the Man! He’s earned the right to enjoy a cold one after all those epic battles over the years.
Though he came up short this time, Wawrinka’s emotional farewell shows how much the Australian Open means to him. You can’t help but admire his passion and dedication to the sport over the past two decades.
Wawrinka’s victory at the 2014 Australian Open was a career highlight. Even though he fell short this year, he should be proud of the legacy he’s leaving behind. Tennis will miss his unique brand of power and flair.
It’s the end of an era, but what a run Wawrinka has had. Winning 3 Grand Slams is an incredible achievement. He can walk away from the game with his head held high.