I have no guarantee that I will return next year," announces Wawrinka after his first-round elimination
At 40 years old and ten years after his crowning at Roland-Garros, Stan Wawrinka quickly bowed out this Monday against Jacob Fearnley, world number 55.
Facing the journalists in a press conference, the Swiss veteran admitted that the coming weeks and months will provide more answers regarding the future of his career:
"Today, there is a lot of frustration and disappointment. Physically and tennis-wise, I'm preparing well, I still think I'm at a very good level, but there is a lack of confidence and hesitations during matches. I am questioning myself far too much regarding what I should be doing, which is simply playing tennis. [...]
The balance must not tip too much to the negative side. On one hand, there are all the efforts, sacrifices, and discipline required at forty years old to be at a decent level. On the other hand, there needs to be a return, in terms of victories, or matches that allow you to say that it’s worth it, and right now it’s becoming increasingly difficult.
Retirement is a feeling, it's something very personal. I have no guarantee that I will return next year. If there are no results that boost me a bit, I will not come back asking for a wild card, which already gives some answers. I am convinced that I am capable of achieving things but I have not found the key this season.
The disappointments are getting more and more painful and every day I ask myself the question: 'Is this the last time I’m training? Is this the last time I’m here at Roland-Garros?' There is a good chance, but we don't know.
French Open