At 40 years old, Stan Wawrinka just achieved something truly remarkable—and it’s a moment that’s as inspiring as it is rare. In a jaw-dropping, five-set marathon at the 2026 Australian Open, Wawrinka battled for 4½ hours to defeat 21-year-old Arthur Gea, becoming the first man aged 40 or older to reach the third round of a Grand Slam since Ken Rosewall did it back in 1978. But here’s where it gets even more astonishing: this wasn’t just any match—it was the longest of the tournament, and it happened to be Wawrinka’s final appearance at Melbourne Park. Talk about going out with a bang.
The 2014 Australian Open champion and three-time major winner showed why he’s a legend of the sport. Despite his age, Wawrinka held his nerve in a grueling 10-point tiebreaker in the fifth set, securing a 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (3) victory. Meanwhile, Gea, a young qualifier, struggled with cramps in the final moments, highlighting the physical toll of such an intense battle. And this is the part most people miss: Wawrinka’s achievement isn’t just about winning—it’s about defying the odds at an age when most players have long retired.
At 40 years and 310 days, Wawrinka is the first 40-plus player to reach this stage of a major since Rosewall did it 48 years ago at the age of 44. It’s a testament to his resilience, especially considering this is his 49th five-set match at a Grand Slam—more than any other player in history. When asked how he felt after the match, Wawrinka’s response was refreshingly honest: 'Exhausted!' But he also shared a deeper sentiment with the crowd: 'It’s my last Australian Open, so I’m trying to last as long as possible. You gave me so much energy—I’m not young anymore, so I need the extra.'
Here’s where it gets controversial: Is Wawrinka’s late-career success a testament to his unmatched grit, or does it raise questions about the depth of today’s younger players? After all, a 40-year-old pushing through to the third round of a Grand Slam is virtually unheard of in the modern era. It’s a debate worth having—and one that Wawrinka himself seems to invite with his every move on the court.
Looking ahead, Wawrinka’s next challenge is a third-round clash with No. 9 seed Taylor Fritz. When asked how he’d recover, Wawrinka joked about a spectator spilling a beer earlier in the match, quipping, 'I’ll pick up a beer. I deserve one!' It’s this blend of humor, humility, and determination that makes Wawrinka a fan favorite—even as he prepares to hang up his racket for good.
As we reflect on this historic moment, it’s impossible not to wonder: Can Wawrinka pull off another upset, or is his journey nearing its end? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—is this the last hurrah of a tennis great, or is there still more magic left in his racket?
