Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, recently experienced a disappointing first-round exit at the French Open, losing to Britain’s Jacob Fearnley in straight sets: 7-6, 6-3, 6-2. Despite this setback, Wawrinka, who received a wild card to compete at Roland Garros, continues to express his love for the game. His illustrious career has a resounding note of glory: winning the Roland Garros title in 2015. Yet, this year, he is struggling with early round losses on the ATP Tour and the Challenger Tour.
With the win over Fearnley, this was another chapter in the career arc of Wawrinka’s illustrious career. The 38-year-old Swiss great admitted it’s been hard for him accepting his struggles this summer. His early exit from the French Open only adds to the disappointment of his recent performances. This shaming defeat has undoubtedly made him dig deep before he wraps up his time on clay.
Acknowledging the Challenges
Wawrinka’s career has been defined by greatness, but lately he found himself struggling in the shadows, fighting anger and disappointment. He commented on the current state of his game, stating, “It’s always about the balance with the sacrifice you’re doing on one side to be at that level. You’ve gotta get a few of those wins on the other side. But honestly so far I’m not racking up too many victories. Not enough.” This admission highlights the internal fight he seems to be in on how to stay competitive.
In addition, Wawrinka suggested it was unclear if he’d be able to return to the world’s biggest events. “If I don’t win a few matches, if my results don’t get my ranking higher, then I will not come back whether as a wild card or anything else,” he stated. This ominous comment definitely casts doubts on his potential to return to Roland Garros next year—as he continues to consider his options long-term.
Looking Ahead
Although losing in the first round of the tournament was a disappointment for Wawrinka, he’s still dedicated to his craft. He seemed pleased with his own physicality, technical ability to go through difficulty. “As for the next few weeks, well, the clay season is coming to an end. I did everything I could to try to keep a really good level of play. I’m satisfied with what I’m still able to do physically and technically,” he noted.
The fierce determination that earned him those wins is clear as he stares into the abyss of retirement. That doesn’t stop him from hoping to qualify for upcoming tournaments, as he puts it, “I’m getting closer each week.” This feeling captures an insidious force in him wanting to persist through perfecting himself and orancing to greater defeats.
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