Stan Wawrinka’s never-ending story continues as he confirms Auckland start for 2026

Stan Wawrinka refuses to let the curtain fall on his illustrious career just yet. Despite approaching his 41st birthday, the Swiss legend is actively designing his schedule for the 2026 season, which will mark his 25th year on the professional tour. Far from discussing retirement, "Stan the Man" is seeking new challenges and has confirmed a surprising destination to kickstart his campaign. After nearly two decades, he will return to the ATP 250 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.

Currently sitting outside the top 150 in the world rankings, Wawrinka understands that his opportunities on the main stage are becoming scarcer. However, the three-time Grand Slam champion remains committed to squeezing every last drop out of a journey that began back in 2002. His return to Auckland is nostalgic; his last appearances there date back to 2006, where he reached the semifinals against Mario Ancic, and a first-round exit in 2007 against Nicolas Almagro.

The motivation for this enduring longevity isn't about chasing ranking points or prize money anymore. Wawrinka has made it clear that the adrenaline of competition and the connection with the crowd are drugs he isn't ready to give up. He admitted recently that the energy he receives from the fans is irreplaceable, acknowledging that once he finally hangs up his racquet, that specific emotional high will be impossible to replicate elsewhere in life.

His competitive fire was on full display during the final weeks of the 2025 season at the Hellenic Championships in Athens. Wawrinka thrilled the Greek crowd with a vintage comeback against Botic van de Zandschulp, rallying from a set down to win a tight three-setter. Although he eventually fell in the second round to the in-form Lorenzo Musetti, the match was a grueling battle that proved his legendary one-handed backhand still has plenty of sting left.

It is not just the men’s draw that will feature tennis royalty defying the passage of time in New Zealand. The tournament organizers have pulled off a massive coup by also securing the participation of Venus Williams. The American icon is preparing for her staggering 33rd consecutive season on tour. Ranked No. 570, she remains the oldest player with a WTA ranking, five years senior to her closest age-peers like Bethanie Mattek-Sands.

Williams is no stranger to success on New Zealand soil, having lifted the trophy there in 2015. That victory, where she defeated Caroline Wozniacki in the final, marked the 46th of her 49 career titles. This will be her sixth appearance at the event, where she also reached the final in 2013 and the quarterfinals in 2018. Her presence alongside Wawrinka turns the Auckland event into a celebration of unparalleled tennis longevity.

Wawrinka’s recent performances in Greece highlighted exactly why he continues to punish his body for the sport. "It’s a big reason why I keep doing it, is to be full of the emotion, to see the fans supporting me, giving me so much energy," Wawrinka said after his win in Athens. "It’s still amazing. It’s something that I know the day I will stop I will not find anywhere else."

Even in defeat, his level remains competitive. His loss to Musetti was a tight three-set affair (6-4, 6-7, 6-4) against a player fighting for a spot in the ATP Finals. Wawrinka acknowledged the challenge of facing the younger generation but seemed invigorated by it. "He’s playing so well. I’ve watched him play many matches this year, so I’m looking forward to playing him and seeing where I am," Wawrinka noted before the match.

For Wawrinka, the trip to Oceania represents more than just a nostalgic farewell tour; it is a critical test for his future. With his ranking currently languishing near No. 158, the Swiss knows that the results of this upcoming course will be definitive. Auckland provides the first stage to see if his body can withstand another year of grinding against opponents half his age, or if 2026 will finally be the last dance for one of the game's greats