"What a player!" – Andy Murray praises Stan Wawrinka after battle with Daniil Medvedev in Rotterdam

Stan Wawrinka, a true testament to resilience, displayed flashes of his past brilliance in a grueling battle against Daniil Medvedev at the Rotterdam Open. At 39 years old, the Swiss maestro showed that he can still compete at the highest level, going toe-to-toe with one of the sport’s top contenders.

Despite Medvedev’s eventual three-set victory, Wawrinka’s performance served as a reminder that he remains a formidable competitor. His efforts were even praised by longtime rival Sir Andy Murray, who took to social media to express his admiration.

The matchup

It is always exciting when top-quality players head to Rotterdam, a tournament rich in history that often brings out the best in the sport’s elite. Wawrinka hoped to channel his 2015 performance, when he lifted the trophy in Holland, but this time, he faced an immense challenge against the tournament’s second seed, Medvedev.

Although Medvedev eventually secured a 6-7(8), 6-4, 6-1 victory, Wawrinka left everything on the court.

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In the first set, the Swiss veteran saved two set points, including one that featured an incredible 29-shot rally. His aggressive playstyle paid off, winning 12 out of 17 net points, before clinching the set in a tie-break.

Medvedev, however, managed to shift the momentum, playing more aggressively and forcing more errors from his opponent. By the third set, the Russian was in full control, not facing a single break point.

Despite the loss, Wawrinka showed he can still challenge the best players on the tour.

 Reactions

Following the match, Wawrinka reaffirmed his commitment to the game, stating that retirement is not on his mind.

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"My plan was always to continue," he said.

"The way I feel, tennis-wise and physically, how well I train, the level of play I reach… but of course, there is also the reality of results and rankings.

"If I no longer have the opportunity to play in the big tournaments that I usually enjoy, that could affect my motivation to continue. So far, that has not been the case."

Medvedev also paid respect to his opponent, acknowledging Wawrinka’s enduring quality.

"He played good, but it’s Stan, he always plays good," said Medvedev.

"He was at his peak when winning Grand Slams. I never played him when he was at this level, and it’s a pity because I would love it as a challenge.

"I am sure there would be some matches where he would chop me and some where I would fight. Stan is also a fantastic guy. He is one of the humblest, most likeable guys on tour."

Murray praises Wawrinka’s performance

Andy Murray

Wawrinka’s display also caught the attention of Andy Murray, who shared his admiration on social media.

"Watching Stan the man @stanwawrinka battling with one of the best players in the world at nearly 40 years of age in the first round in Rotterdam," he put on X.

"What a player! #levels."

What’s next for Wawrinka?

Wawrinka’s storied career has already cemented him as one of the sport’s greats, but his determination to keep pushing the limits remains inspiring.

As 2025 unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how far he can continue to challenge the best and compete at the highest level.

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