Stan Wawrinka returned to the tournament where he won his first title in 2006. After a round 3 exit in the Wimbledon Championships, Wawrinka regained his form and confidence in the Croatia Open, in Umag. Unfortunately, he wouldn’t be able to win in Umag once again, as he was defeated by Alexei Popyrin in the final. After the match, his speech roused his fans around the world, and many praised the efforts of their favorite player.
Prior to the commencement of the tournament, Wawrinka was more excited than anyone to play in the Croatia Open. He won his first title on the ATP Tour in Umag and would return 17 years later to win it once again. After his first-round victory, he stated that he felt old playing in the championship once again.
Stan Wawrinka evokes fans’ emotions after loss
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In an astounding run, Wawrinka reached the final of the Croatia Open without dropping a set. The Swiss player was set to win big in the championship as followers worldwide supported his run. However, he would go on to lose the final match in three sets against Alexei Popyrin. After the match, he was beside himself.
In his speech after his loss, he stated, “Guys, thank you so much. I know it’s so stupid to cry but I love this sport so much you make it really special. Amazing week; really hope I can come back, and thank you for the stay during the week. Thank you for being here, and hopefully, I’ll see you next year.“
"I love this sport so much"
Tennis loves you more, @stanwawrinka ❤️ pic.twitter.com/whhW076dJD
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 30, 2023
After watching him shedding tears with gratitude, fans shared their love for the Swiss tennis legend on Twitter.
One fan of the Swiss player said they were a big fan of seeing players heartbroken after losing in finals, as it shows their passion for the sport.
Biggggg fan of players who reach the final and ugly cry after losing. The realest ❤️ https://t.co/9I0LYmyeEu
— Non-anxiety Magnet (parody) (@goesonrants) July 31, 2023
Following the tweet, one fan expressed his/her feelings seeing Wawrinka shed tears.
he’s so real i’m tearing up https://t.co/XLR1vqy0LI
— ons4ever (@upthreebreaks) July 31, 2023
Another fan felt emotional watching Wawrinka shedding tears.
I'm not crying 🥺🥺 https://t.co/NvVXBCfCLJ
— Classically_Simp (@classical_simp) July 31, 2023
Caught up in their admiration, one user outrightly stated their love for him.
oh stan! we love YOU so much. https://t.co/8VryfvcJkL
— ellen balazki (@ellencbalazki) July 31, 2023
Another fan exclaimed their love for the Croatia Open finalist.
😭my beautiful boy https://t.co/oxe3me5brd
— C. Do ❤️🔥Penko stan 👑🎾💥 (@jcjd0413) July 31, 2023
A fan of Wawrinka explained his fantastic one-handed backhand and how glad they were to see him playing again.
@stanwawrinka you are a class act!!! We all wish we could hit a one-handed backhand like you do. It is awesome to see you back playing competitive #tennis https://t.co/hzUNQCSLTg
— Carlos Micames (@CarlosMicames) July 31, 2023
Seeing how players like Wawrinka and Andy Murray grind in smaller tournaments after playing at the top for a long-time, one fan said that everyone should follow in their footsteps.
I hope more fans look back at Stan and Andy's late-career grind with fondness.
So much easier to be on tour when you're in top shape and there's at least the promise of victory.
To continue doing this when you're losing every week and not feeling great: needs genuine love. https://t.co/MhIVt2griK
— Tatsam (@LunkyFallow) July 31, 2023
One fan simply lauded the Swiss player.
Allez Stan https://t.co/XBst1FXsID
— AbbeyRoad (@AbbeyPangilinan) July 31, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Another Twitter user called him an underrated player.
Under-rated legend. https://t.co/8LTZq8sHQc
— Haseeb Anwar Virk (@haseebvirk) July 31, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Stan Wawrinka is a player who has a plethora of fans and finds love in all corners of the world. Although he is unable to play replicate the form that won his majors, he still strives to win as many tournaments and matches as he can in the twilight of his career.
Watch this story – Billionaire Roger Federer Leaves No Stone Unturned to Give Tennis a New Edge as He Vehemently Promotes Extremely Popular Sneaker Brand