Stan Wawrinka will make one last trip to his Australian Open venues.
The 40-year-old was handed a final card in the tournament on Thursday, which coincided with Nick Kyrgios’ announcement that he would focus on doubles with Thanasi Kokkinakis rather than subject his untested body to the rigors of a top-five singles event.
Whatever Kyrgios’ current status, perhaps no one – including players from the host nation – deserves a wild card more than Wawrinka. The Swiss, who is starting his final season on tour, is a former Aussie Open champion (defeating Rafael Nadal in the 2014 title match). Wawrinka has reached two more semis Down Under (2015, 2017) in addition to two quarterfinal appearances (2011, 2020).
The country’s current number 156 has won just four ATP-level matches in 2025. He announced his impending retirement before the start of this season.
“One last push,” the three-time Grand Slam champion wrote on social media. “Every book needs an ending. It’s time to write the last chapter of my career as a professional tennis player. 2026 will be my last year on tour.
“I still want to push my limits and finish this tour on the best possible note. I still have dreams in this sport. I have enjoyed every part of what tennis has given me, especially the emotions I feel playing in front of you. I look forward to seeing you again, all over the world.”
Now that final round-the-world trip is confirmed to have a stop in Melbourne.
