At 38 years of age, Stan Wawrinka remains a tenacious soldier in the tennis world. This three Grand Slam-winning icon exudes humility and down-to-earth behavior. With a level of tennis brilliance that ‘took away two Grand Slams‘ from the Serbinator Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka has created a legacy that is respected and adored throughout the tennis community.
In this ATP 250 clay court tournament in Umag, Stan Wawrinka defeated every opponent without losing one set. The Swiss was predicted to win against his young Australian opponent in straight sets but reality set differently from what was anticipated.
Alexei Popyrin praises Stan Wawrinka after winning Umag
For the Australian star Alexie Popyrin, the Umag Crown at the Croatian Open was a complete circle of his tennis career. At 9 years old, his entire family packed their bags to travel to Croatia so that young Popyrin could compete in his tennis tournament. He turned heads around when he lifted the Singapore Open 2021 title and now stuns the world as he lifted his second ATP title in the Croatian Open after defeating Stan Wawrinka.
After the youngster picked up his second milestone title, the 23-year-old professional speaks about his seasoned, iconic opponent. He praises Wawrinka, “You’re a legend of this sport. For me to play a final against you is an honor. I grew up rooting for you. I rooted for you in every single Slam final you played. Honestly man, I love you & I love the love that you have for the sport”.
Popyrin to Stan Wawrinka:
“You're a legend of this sport. For me to play a final against you is an honor. I grew up rooting for you. I rooted for you every single Slam final you played. Honestly man, I love you & I love the love that you have for the sport.”
How we all feel. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/7lOkrBGQdQ
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 30, 2023
Young star Alexei’s comments were relatable to every tennis fan out there as Wawrinka remains one of the most admirable players in the community. His combination of humility, sportsmanship, determination, and success makes this legend one of the most endeared.
Stan Wawrinka was upset and in tears after losing in Umag
Sixteen ATP titles and three Grand Slams indicate an amazing journey as a tennis professional. Two long decades, of competing against a few of the greatest athletes of all time and defeating them is what Stan Wawrinka is remembered off. Now at 38 years old, he still gives his very best and dominates the court.
His loss at the Croatian Open after not losing a set was extremely unexpected for him and every tennis fan. His words after this match showed his true magnitude of love, passion and gratitude for tennis. With his eyes filled with tears, he said, “I know it’s so stupid to cry, but I love this sport so much. You make it really special”.
As the fans cheered, he added, “Hopefully I can come back. Thank you for the support. Thank you for being here. Hopefully I see you next year”. Tennis fans are also hoping that this admirable icon does not back down any time soon!
"I love this sport so much"
Tennis loves you more, @stanwawrinka ❤️ pic.twitter.com/whhW076dJD
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 30, 2023
What is your opinion on Stan Wawrinka’s journey? Let us know your favorite memory of this admirable icon of the tennis community in the comments below!
