Wawrinka's big dream before his retirement: "I would like to end within the top-100"

Carlos Navarro | 3 Feb 2026 | 14.13

Wawrinka revealed his great goal for 2026. Source: Getty

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Stan Wawrinka has not yet said his last word on a tour that still has room for the old rockers. He demonstrated this at the past 2026 Australian Open, where he became the big story of the first week, reaching the third round and being a protagonist of epic thrillers that delighted the spectators. His hopeful start of the season, where he also delivered great performances in the United Cup, has generated undeniable excitement among the audience.

Therefore, Stan, former three-time Grand Slam champion, is causing a sensation wherever he goes. Montpellier, his next tournament, is no exception: the Swiss is the main attraction of a tournament that signifies his return home, to Europe, after a successful stay in oceanic lands. What is the Lausanne native's assessment of his weeks in Australia? Is it time to think about 'unretiring'? What does he expect from his upcoming events? He cleared all doubts himself in a press conference before his debut, as reported by Univers Tennis.

Wawrinka reveals his main goal for 2026: this is what he said before starting his journey in Montpellier

Recovered after Australia and with a very calm philosophy for his final year on the tour

"I am well, back home safe and sound. I have recovered well, had time. I arrived here yesterday, trained last night for the first time, and today I did it twice, happy to be back. I feel good, with a very healthy attitude. I know this is my last year, as I have already announced. I am very happy with that decision, but at the same time very motivated to face this season. A tennis year is long, there are many tournaments, many matches to play.

Very happy with the start of the year, at least with what I did in Australia, where I played many matches, a lot of tennis. I have prepared thoroughly this winter, training as much as I could to try to return to a decent level. I hope to continue to be competitive, winning matches, and gradually climbing in the rankings."

- After the great level he showed in Australia, has he reconsidered retiring? Has he reconsidered his position?

"It is true that I played many matches in Australia at a very good level, and that makes me very happy. It has given me confidence regarding what I feel I can do on the court. However, this does not guarantee results for the rest of the year. We will have to fight for victories: every match is tough, difficult, and things can go either way. Whatever happens, regardless of my ranking and my results from now until the end of the season, what happens will not affect my decision at all."

- His roadmap for the remainder of 2026

"I would like to play the entire season, although it will depend on my age and what I can do. Having a clear idea is complicated because there are many tournaments, and everything will depend on the rankings and the invitations. When I receive an invitation, it makes me very happy, and I sincerely appreciate the tournament, but it is exceptional. My calendar, therefore, will depend on my ranking and my results, although the desire to play more or less a full season is there."

- The major goals of his final season as a professional

"The goal is to be competitive, enjoy on the court, as has been the case throughout my career. I want to immerse myself in this experience with all my fans, something I have always appreciated, one of the reasons I have continued playing for so long. Additionally, I would like to climb the rankings again and finish the year in the top-100. For me, finishing the year in good form and being competitive is one of the goals that motivates me the most and to which I aim, without doubts."

- Could he play qualifying rounds and Challenger tournaments if necessary?

"Yes, I have played several Challengers in these last years. It is not a problem for me. I will probably play some, especially at the beginning of the clay court season. My desire is to play the big tournaments, but if you want to be in the Grand Slams, it is ideal to be part of the top-100. My calendar will be a mix of what I need to play, where I want to play, and where I can play. My goal is still to finish my career among the top 100 players in the world."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El gran sueño de Wawrinka antes de su retirada: "Me gustaría poner el punto y final dentro del top-100"