"I hope to re-enter the top 100": Stan Wawrinka sets his bold 2026 target before Auckland return

Stan Wawrinka begins 2026 with clarity, purpose, and a determination that defies the passing of time. Nearing 41 and entering his 25th season on tour, the Swiss star continues to set goals that keep him motivated every day. Once again outside the top 150, Wawrinka has reframed the year not as a farewell but as a new challenge, with one objective standing above the rest: returning to the top 100 and proving he still belongs among the sport’s elite.

His 2026 story begins in Auckland, a destination he has not visited since 2007. The ASB Classic will serve as his season opener, offering a setting that blends nostalgia with opportunity. It’s a move that surprised fans but fits perfectly into his mindset: seeking meaningful tournaments, strong atmospheres, and the emotional spark that pushes him into competitive mode. Auckland, with its intimacy and crowd connection, provides exactly that.

“The last time I played in Auckland was 20 years ago. It was a great experience. I haven't had the chance to go back since, but I am really happy to return. I decided to come back this year to have the chance to play in Auckland again in front of my fans. I remember the incredible atmosphere that prevailed there and I really look forward to being there. I love the competition.”

Wawrinka’s words reveal more than sentimentality. His return is a calculated choice to start 2026 in a place where the surface suits his game, the conditions are familiar, and the atmosphere fuels his intensity. From a ranking perspective, Auckland offers a real opportunity: a deep run could generate valuable points early in the season, helping him build momentum toward his top-100 target.

Wawrinka enters the season with objective reasons for optimism. His late-2025 performance at the Hellenic Championship included a win over Botic van de Zandschulp and a tight contest with Lorenzo Musetti, proving he can still push top-50 players physically and tactically. These results, combined with a clean preseason and a carefully structured schedule, create the foundation he needs to chase his ranking goal across the first half of the season.

“For me, it's all about competition. It is also an opportunity to push myself, to reach my full potential, to give the best of myself,” stated the former world No. 3. “I continue to train hard to be in top shape during tournaments and matches. I hope to re-enter the top 100 in 2026, participate in major tournaments, continue to progress, and see where I stand at the end of the year. Even after 20 years on the tour, I still love this sport just as much. I am passionate about tennis and the emotions I feel while playing in different cities and at different tournaments.”

Re-entering the top 100 is not only symbolic—it is practical. It would secure direct entry into Grand Slams and ATP 250 events and reduce his dependency on wild cards. Statistically, he needs around 550–650 points across the season, achievable through some deep runs at ATP 250 events or few victories on bigger tournaments. With strategic scheduling and careful load management, the goal is demanding but within reach.

The three-time major champion will return to the ASB Classic in Auckland, 20 years after his last appearance. On that occasion, he arrived as the 8th seed and fell in the first round to Spaniard Nicolas Almagro. From that specific draw, only one player remains active besides Stan—Frenchman Gael Monfils, who is precisely the defending champion this time around.

“Gael is a close friend, he’s an amazing champion, amazing tennis player, an amazing guy. We know each other for so many years, we played may times against each other. So im always happy t osee him succeed in torunaments. Last year was amazing what he achieved in acukalnd and hopefully we can play ne more time against each other. “

Monfils is precisely targeting a return to Auckland in a season where he is preparing his comeback. While Wawrinka is currently the oldest player on Tour at 40, Monfils is the second oldest at 39. In their head-to-head, the Frenchman leads 4–3, including victories in the 2019 Rotterdam Open final and a clash in the second round of Wimbledon 2024, where Monfils won in straight sets.