Stan Wawrinka Reflects on Career, Calls Novak Djokovic Strongest Player

Stan Wawrinka is set to retire later this year, with the Basel Open in October planned as his final official tournament.

The Swiss player, currently ranked world No. 110, has been preparing for his final season on tour.

He attempted to optimise his preparation for Wimbledon with a wildcard entry and a withdrawal from the Mallorca Open.

Wawrinka revisited the key milestones of his career, including Roland Garros, where he exited in the first round this year to Jesper de Jong after a four-set defeat.

The three-time Grand Slam champion described the emotional reception from the Paris crowd as a defining element of his farewell.

Wawrinka placed Novak Djokovic at the top of tennis history, citing both dominance and longevity as separating factors in the debate over all-time greatness.

He was explicit in his assessment of the Serbian's standing in the sport, saying "At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin."

Wawrinka also highlighted Rafael Nadal as the most difficult opponent he faced, particularly at Roland Garros, where their matches demanded sustained physical and tactical resistance.

He identified the 2013 Australian Open as a turning point in his career trajectory, where he began to believe Grand Slam success was realistic rather than theoretical.

The first Grand Slam title is something special, Wawrinka said, and when you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline.

Wawrinka's final appearance at Roland Garros ended in a first-round defeat to Jesper de Jong, 3-6, 6-3, 3-6, 4-6, on June 1, 2023.

But it's not easy to say goodbye to something you love and have done for a quarter of a century, Wawrinka said.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said to First&Red.

Wawrinka added that the decision to retire was already settled, as he recognised the limits of sustaining elite-level performance at this stage of his career.

The Swiss player will always be remembered for his impressive career, which includes three Grand Slam titles and a ranking as high as world No. 3.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of tennis players.

And as he prepares to hang up his racket, Wawrinka can look back on a career filled with incredible achievements.

So Wawrinka's final season will be an emotional one, with the Basel Open in October marking the end of an era.

But for now, Wawrinka is focused on enjoying his last few months on tour.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said of Novak Djokovic.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a testament to the Serbian's impressive career.

Wawrinka will always be remembered as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

Wawrinka's career has been marked by many highs and lows, but he will always be remembered for his incredible achievements.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

The crowd's reaction to Wawrinka's final match at Roland Garros was a special moment for the Swiss player.

"It’s all because of the emotions I get on court with the fans. There was a special moment in that match-so much support, so much positive energy. I felt love," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros.

"It was amazing. It’s one of the main reasons why I’m 41 and still playing this year," Wawrinka said.

The emotional support of the fans has been a key factor in Wawrinka's decision to continue playing.

"Leaving was the right decision. I’m glad I was lucky enough to hear my last ovation here at Roland Garros," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's decision to retire was not an easy one, but he knows it is the right one.

"I felt love," Wawrinka said, describing the emotional reception from the Paris crowd.

The Paris crowd has always been special to Wawrinka, and his final match at Roland Garros was no exception.

"The first Grand Slam title is something special. When you reach match point, you suddenly feel everything-everything you have done for 20 years, all the sacrifices, all the discipline," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's first Grand Slam title was a special moment in his career.

"At the end of the day, the strongest player in history is Novak Djokovic-by a huge margin," Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka's comments on Djokovic's dominance are a reflection of the Serbian's impressive career.

"What he has done over the years is unbelievable. He has broken all records and continues to compete at the highest level," Wawrinka said.

Djokovic's career has been marked by many incredible achievements.

"The most difficult opponent was Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, especially in the fifth set," Wawrinka said.

Nadal has always been a tough opponent for Wawrinka, especially at Roland Garros