As long as the motivation is there, I want to push a little more": Stan Wawrinka dismisses retirement idea

Eighteen participations in Basel and in his forties, but still the same desire: to fight. In a press conference, Stan Wawrinka wanted to reassure his fans—retirement is not happening just yet.

At 40 years old, Stan Wawrinka will compete next week in the ATP 500 in Basel for the 18th time in his career. The Swiss veteran has drawn Miomir Kecmanovic in the first round.

Speaking at a press conference this Sunday, he has for now put aside the idea of retirement:

"I try to make the most of all these moments on the tour. Every athlete has an expiration date. But I'm happy to be able to play here, to be able to play in Athens (November 2-8).

And I also hope to be able to play next year. Ending a career is something very personal; everyone has to do it as they feel. The day I stop, you'll know (smile)."

A two-time finalist in Challenger events this year (Aix-en-Provence and Rennes), the Vaud native believes in his chances of winning one last tournament:

"I try to maintain the best possible level, so that I can go as far as possible in tournaments. But the chances are obviously greater on the Challenger tour than in an ATP tournament.

We always have personal goals. For me, it's about reaching my maximum potential. I want above all to push the limits and see the results that follow or don't follow. As long as the motivation is there, I want to push a little more.