Stan Wawrinka, 40, Stuns Australian Open Crowd With Epic First-Round Victory

In His Final Australian Open, 40-Year-Old Stan Wawrinka Delivers Masterclass Performance To Beat Laslo Djere In Four Sets

© Wawrinka AO26 T1 Photo by WILLIAM WEST AFP

Arthur Millot

le 19/01/2026 à 07h57

1 min to read

Karlovic Ivo Wawrinka Stan

At 40 years old, in his final Australian Open, Stan Wawrinka reminded the world why his name will forever be etched in tennis history.

Facing Laslo Djere in the first round, Wawrinka fought for 3 hours and 30 minutes in an intense battle to win 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6.

First Grand Slam Win Since 2024

This victory is significant. It marks Stan Wawrinka's first Grand Slam win since Wimbledon 2024, and his first at the Australian Open since 2021.

Additionally, he becomes the second-oldest player (40 years and 296 days) to win a singles match at Melbourne Park since Ivo Karlovic (40 years and 326 days) in 2020.

In a career twilight marked by injuries and struggles, this win serves as a reminder: Stan Wawrinka is not yet ready to bow out quietly.

A Match That Mirrored His Career

And the hard-fought match perfectly reflected the Swiss player's career. After dropping the first set, Wawrinka did not falter.

Gradually, he raised his level, relying on his experience and tactical awareness.

The breathless fourth-set tie-break provided one final thrill for a standing Rod Laver Arena, aware they were witnessing a rare moment.

With this result, he advances to the second round and will face the winner of the match between Lehecka and Gea.