In a world of the ‘Big Three’, let’s shift our focus for a while to another Swiss tennis star who has also repeatedly shown the world why age is just a number. Before stepping onto the court on Wednesday at the Rio Open, Stan Wawrinka spoke about what keeps him going even at this age. The 38-year-old tennis star who has won 3 Grand Slam titles so far in his career has gone through some extreme highs and lows in his career. Now, he only wants to enjoy the sport.
Wawrinka had struggled with injuries for a quite significant time in his career. He had undergone two knee surgeries in 2017 and then four years later, he had two foot surgeries. But every time he has ensured to make a comeback, the ‘Stanimal’ way.
“It doesn’t matter how many titles or how much money I have” – Stan Wawrinka
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He became the oldest man to make it to the third of the US Open last year, since Jimmy Connors. After achieving the historic feat, Wawrinka said, ” If you [are] still passionate about something, you shouldn’t stop or change. ” He had revealed that he hadn’t forgotten why he started playing the racket sport. Wawrinka had a dream of playing at the big events in tennis and he has done it quite successfully. Per recent comments, ” I play because I like what I do. I’m at a point where I want to try new tournaments and I’m happy to have made the decision. “
Stan Wawrinka tras llegar a #RioDeJaneiro: “Juego porque me gusta lo que hago. Estoy en un punto en el que quiero probar nuevos torneos y me siento feliz por haber tomado esta decisión. Voy a aprovechar al máximo este tiempo aquí”. pic.twitter.com/lXwVkRO72I
— Todo Sobre Tenis (@Tsobretenis) February 19, 2024
Stan Wawrinka now looks forward to making the most of this time here in Rio de Janeiro. He went on to add, ” What keeps me active is the fact that tennis is my passion. Being a tennis player is what I want. So I try to enjoy it to the fullest. It doesn’t matter how many titles or how much money I have. I don’t play for that, I play because I want to. “
The 38YO Swiss superstar said he enjoys it and it’s because he loves what he does. But who has been his constant support throughout his 22-year-long career?
Wawrinka reveals his pillars of support
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Stan Wawrinka had thanked Roger Federer for supporting him throughout his journey after winning his maiden Grand Slam title at the 2014 AO . He also put his name next to his family.
During an interview after his emphatic victory 10 years ago, Wawrinka stated, ” Roger [Federer] is a good friend. He’s for me the best player ever. He’s been there since so many years. He was struggling a little bit last year, but except that he’s an amazing player and, amazing friend because he always wants the best for me. “
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Although he is nearing the end of his career, he has clearly mentioned he doesn’t yet feel old. Can Stan Wawrinka add a few more titles to his bag before taking the final call? Share your thoughts on this.
Watch This Story: Bonafide Fitness Buff Serena Williams Reveals Major Nostalgia That Keeps Her Pumped Up In The Gym