Stan Wawrinka Bids Farewell at Wimbledon with Epic Loss
Stan Wawrinka said goodbye to Wimbledon on 9 July 2024, falling 6‑7 (7), 7‑6 (16), 7‑6 (7), 7‑6 (5) to Matteo Berrettini in a four‑hour marathon that capped his 19th and final appearance at the All England Club.
The 41‑year‑old former world No. 3 entered the Centre Court as the oldest man in the draw, armed with a wild‑card and a desire to finish on his own terms. The opening set stretched to a 9‑7 tie‑break, with Wawrinka clinching it after a series of long rallies. Berrettini answered back, snatching the second set 18‑16 in a tie‑break that saw Wawrinka double‑fault at 9‑7.
Both players traded service games, with the Swiss legend never seeing a break point until the third set. The roof closed as the match edged past the three‑hour mark, and Berrettini finally broke Wawrinka’s serve-the only break point of the night. The Italian then held his nerve in a decisive tie‑break, winning 7‑5 to seal the victory after four grueling sets.
Wawrinka’s career includes three Grand Slam titles-the 2014 Australian Open, 2015 Roland‑Garros, and 2016 US Open-and a reputation for powerful backhands and clutch performances. His final Wimbledon run underscores a rare longevity; at 41 years and 106 days he became the oldest competitor in the men’s draw. The emotional post‑match interview revealed his love for the sport and the difficulty of stepping away, even as he acknowledges the time has come.
The Swiss star will retire at the end of the 2024 season, having already announced his intention to step away after this tournament. He plans to spend the remaining months reflecting on his career and supporting younger Swiss players. Berrettini, meanwhile, advances to the next round, carrying the momentum of a historic win that will be remembered for its marathon tie‑breaks and dramatic roof closures.
Fans on No. 1 Court witnessed a rare spectacle: four consecutive tie‑breaks, each highlighted by the on‑screen caption “seven‑point tie‑break.” The atmosphere oscillated between tension and admiration as the players exchanged blows. When the roof finally closed, the crowd’s applause echoed through the arena, honoring both the Swiss veteran’s final bow and the Italian’s tenacious performance.
Wawrinka’s farewell match will live on as one of the most intense battles in recent Wimbledon history. The 4‑hour‑20‑minute contest showcased his enduring skill, his willingness to fight point by point, and the respect he commands across the tennis world. As he steps away, the sport loses a champion whose legacy includes not just titles, but unforgettable moments like this final showdown.