Emotional Wawrinka receives US Open farewell after final Grand Slam match

[[{“value”:”

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka received an emotional farewell at the US Open after his final appearance at a major tournament ended with a straight-sets defeat to Italy’s Matteo Berrettini.

The 41-year-old Swiss icon, who is set to retire following the conclusion of the 2026 campaign, put up a spirited fight before losing 6-7(4), 6-7(3), 0-6.

US Open has been a special place for Wawrinka over the course of his career. It was back in 2016 in New York that Wawrinka captured his third major crown, defeating Novak Djokovic in the final.

Throughout the contest, a vocal crowd transformed the evening into a tribute for the departing Swiss star, roaring for every point Wawrinka secured and expressing continuous gratitude for his contributions to the sport.

Stan Wawrinka reflects on his US Open record

Addressing the crowd during the post-match ceremony, Wawrinka looked back at his journey at the US Open, which started 20 years ago.

“It has been 20 years since I first came to New York. I remember the first time I came here. It was impressive for me to feel the New York vibe and the energy of this tournament,” Wawrinka said.

“But over the years, I have received so much support and love. Because of you [the fans] I really enjoyed it, and I found a way to play my best tennis here,” he added.

Expressing gratitude to his supporters, Wawrinka cited their backing as the main reason he pushed his career into his early 40s.

“Tonight, again, was the reason why I kept playing until 41. [It is because of] the moments like you gave me tonight, like you gave us tonight. This is an amazing sport,” he said.

“Tonight, again, was the reason why I kept playing until 41,” Wawrinka said to the crowd. “[It is because of] the moments you gave me tonight, as you gave us tonight. This is an amazing sport.”

Granted a late main-draw wild card, Wawrinka was able to wrap up his Grand Slam career, where he enjoyed great success. Having made his debut in 2005, he finishes his US Open record at 46-17, which includes semi-final runs in 2013 and 2015 alongside his 2016 championship.

“I am super grateful for the wild card because it was important for me to have the opportunity to finish playing all four Grand Slams here in New York. I’m gonna miss it for sure. I’m gonna miss it big time.” Wawrinka concluded.

(With inputs from ANI)

“}]]