Stan Wawrinka pinpoints the difference in play styles between his generation and the new era

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Stan Wawrinka is playing his last season on the ATP Tour in 2026, marking the end of an illustrious career.

In an era dominated by the ‘big three’ of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, Wawrinka claimed three Grand Slam titles and reached a career-high ranking of third in the world.

The Swiss star kicked off his final campaign at the United Cup, where he guided his country to the final.

Wawrinka and Switzerland were ultimately beaten by Poland in the championship tie, with the 40-year-old suffering a defeat to Hubert Hurkacz.

Following the loss, he faced the media and touched on a key difference between his generation of tennis players and the new era.

Stan Wawrinka compares generations of tennis players

When asked in his post-match press conference if his touch gives him an advantage over some of the younger players, Wawrinka responded: “No, I think that’s always been my game.

“I’m trying to mix a lot, to be powerful from [the] baseline. Was not enough today. He’s a great player. He’s tough to beat. Never easy,” he said of Hurkacz.

“I think the level in general was a very high level. I’m happy with it. Always difficult to lose. That’s the thing.

“For the young generation, for the players coming, I think the game of style is different than 15 years ago. Maybe because of the condition, the ball, the ball gets slower.

“You cannot mix too much with your game. That’s why you need to play quite powerful from both sides and go for it. That’s what we’ve been seeing a bit.”

Hubert Hurkacz says Stan Wawrinka is an inspiration

Wawrinka lost to Hurkacz in three sets, but after the match the Pole has incredibly high praise for the legend.

As per the United Cup website, he said: “He’s definitely an inspiration. I was growing up watching him play, compete and win so much.

“Obviously, his game style is really powerful. The shots that he can pull off sometimes, you can really admire them even when you are on the other side of the net.

“It’s a bit annoying sometimes when they come up with [those shots]. Good times for him, bad times for me, but it’s a pleasure to compete against him.”

Wawrinka will now look ahead to his final campaign at the Australian Open, where he is a former champion.