Stan Wawrinka has kept his final Australian Open dream alive by reaching the third round of the Grand Slam.
Wawrinka received a wildcard for the Australian Open, with the 40-year-old having just started his final season on the ATP Tour.
He will retire from tennis at the end of 2026, which he started by helping fire Switzerland to the United Cup final.
They ultimately lost to Poland, but Wawrinka has continued his superb form from the event at the Australian Open.
Stan Wawrinka celebrates another Australian Open win
Wawrinka beat Laslo Djere 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(7-4) in the first round, and followed that up by beating Arthur Gea 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(10-3).
Sharing images of his celebrations on court after his latest win, the legendary ATP figure simply wrote on Instagram: “No words needed.”
While he is rightfully celebrating another phenomenal win in Melbourne, Wawrinka will need to stay fully focused.
He has a very tough task up next at the Australian Open, taking on world number nine Taylor Fritz in the third round.
Stan Wawrinka among ATP veterans thriving at the Australian Open
Intriguingly, Wawrinka isn’t the only ATP veteran who is producing superb levels at this year’s Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic is also into the third round at the age of 38, although that is perhaps less surprising given he has won 10 titles in Melbourne.
But also reaching that stage is 37-year-old Marin Cilic, with all three players having remarkably made it to the third round of the Grand Slam back in 2009.
It is a real testament to their superb ability on the court, and indeed their physical and mental prowess, serving as a fantastic example for younger players on the ATP Tour.
All three can hold their heads extremely high regardless of what happens next, although they will be desperate to remain in the competition for as long as possible.
READ MORE: Novak Djokovic opens up on off-season tweaks shining at the Australian Open
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
