Stan Wawrinka Falls as Berrettini Ends Wimbledon in 4‑Hour Win
Stan Wawrinka saw his Wimbledon campaign end on 5 July 2026 when Matteo Berrettini secured a four‑hour victory in the third round, eliminating the former Grand Slam champion from the grass‑court event.
Berrettini, seeded 22nd, outlasted the 38‑year‑old Swiss player in a marathon that stretched beyond three sets. The match featured multiple break points and long rallies, with both athletes trading aces before Berrettini finally broke Wawrinka’s serve to clinch the win. No exact scoreline was released, but the duration underscored the physical toll on both competitors.
The loss adds another early‑season defeat to Wawrinka’s 2026 record, raising questions about his form ahead of the upcoming hard‑court swing. After a year plagued by shoulder issues, the Swiss veteran has struggled to recapture the power that once powered his 2014 and 2015 Grand Slam triumphs. This Wimbledon exit could affect his ATP ranking, potentially dropping him outside the top 30.
Berrettini’s win propels him into the round of 16, where he will face the winner of the parallel match between a rising British talent and a seasoned French player. The Swiss veteran’s departure opens the draw for lower‑seeded contenders, increasing the likelihood of surprise semifinalists. Fans will watch closely to see if Berrettini can maintain his momentum.
Wawrinka is slated to compete in the upcoming Swiss Indoors in Basel, a tournament he has historically performed well at. Coaches expect him to use the event to rebuild confidence and test any lingering injury concerns. A strong showing in Basel could restore some ranking points and set a more positive tone for the remainder of the season.
Wawrinka’s Wimbledon history includes a quarter‑final run in 2015 and a memorable five‑set battle against Novak Djokovic in 2018. The 2026 defeat marks his seventh first‑round or early‑round exit at the All England Club since 2019, highlighting a stark contrast to his peak years. Analysts note that age and recurring injuries have reshaped his game, shifting from aggressive baseline play to a more defensive approach.
Social media buzz reflected disappointment, with many longtime supporters expressing hope for a comeback. Some highlighted Berrettini’s resilience, praising his ability to sustain a high level of play over four hours. Others called for Wawrinka to consider a reduced schedule to preserve his health for the latter part of the season.
The Wimbledon exit may be a setback, but Wawrinka’s experience and past comebacks suggest he could still find moments of brilliance later in the year.