“It’s going to be special”: Stan Wawrinka begins farewell season at United Cup

Stan Wawrinka is preparing for his debut at the United Cup — his first tournament of the 2026 season, in a year in which he expects to retire. The three-time Grand Slam champion announced a few weeks ago that this will be his final year on tour, bringing to an end a career spanning more than 20 years.

Currently ranked world No. 156, he remains Switzerland’s No. 1 and will have to show whether he can still compete at a high level at 40 years of age. “Let's see how it goes. Let's see first how we enjoy this week,” said the Swiss player in a press conference. “Hopefully if we play well, if we leave Perth on a positive note, maybe I will come back as a captain.”

The former world No. 3 will take on a double role on this occasion, both as Switzerland’s No. 1 singles player and as team captain. He will join world No. 11 Belinda Bencic in Group C in Perth, where they will make their debut against France on January 3.

“Of course, it's going to be special, but it's going to be my last year. So after more than 20 years on tour, of course, it's going to be really special playing all those tournaments that I play so many times for one last time.”

“But at the same time, one year is really long. There's a lot of tennis to play, hopefully, and some good results. For me, I'm just grateful to be able to play those tournaments again one last time, one more time, to see all the fans around the world.”

The three-time major champion was delighted to partner with Bencic, who, as world No. 11, secured Switzerland’s qualification for the event. “I am very happy to be here, thanks to Belinda for qualifying the Swiss team,” Wawrinka added. “It is the second time I play the United Cup. I am very excited. I think it is amazing to be here and that we can play men and women, play mixed doubles to start the year here. I am looking forward to playing for the first time in Perth.”

Wawrinka is preparing for retirement and is currently the oldest player inside the top 1000 of the ATP rankings. The season will also be marked by the retirement of Gaël Monfils, aged 37, who is the oldest player inside the top 150.

One of the defining traits of Wawrinka in recent years has been his competitive spirit, managing to achieve notable victories despite his advanced age. The Swiss player even competed in several Challenger tournaments — something that differs from most of his career on the Tour. He reached finals in Aix-en-Provence and Rennes, as well as semifinals in three other Challenger events.

“As I have always done, I try to push my limits,” Wawrinka said about his recent time on tour. “Being an athlete means always giving your best, exceeding your own limits, and trying to achieve the highest possible with your own abilities.”

“Of course, sometimes it will be difficult in tournaments. It will be very emotional because I know how I feel and who I am, and I love this sport a lot, but overall, I am very content with my decision. I am at peace with it. I am happy to have the opportunity to continue playing at this level at the age of 40. As I said, I hope to achieve good results this year.”

Wawrinka also referred to the difficulties of remaining competitive at 40, often facing players who are 20 years younger — and even some who were still babies when Wawrinka took his first steps as a professional.

“That is the most challenging part when you get older in sports as an athlete. The risk of injuries increases each year, especially after 35. I have had enough injuries in recent years,” added ‘Stan the Man’. “I feel good, and one of my goals is to finish playing tennis and not have to quit after 20 years due to an injury. Yes, that is one of the reasons why I reached the point of wanting this to be my final year, to end on a good note. I hope it goes that way.”

Wawrinka will make his debut on January 3 against Arthur Rinderknech, while Bencic will face Léolia Jeanjean following the late withdrawal of injured Lois Boisson. If necessary, a mixed doubles match will also be played, with it still to be seen whether Wawrinka will take part or if another pairing will be selected for a potential decisive match.

Within two days, Switzerland will also face a tough Italy team, the reigning Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup champions, led by Jasmine Paolini and Flavio Cobolli.