Melbourne: Stan Wawrinka, the three-time Grand Slam champion, stated he expects to return next year at the age of 39 and has no plans to retire after losing in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday.
The rising sensation from Switzerland, who a decade ago defeated Rafael Nadal to win the first Grand Slam of the year, was poised to dethrone veteran Adrian Mannarino. However, he collapsed to the French 20th seed 6-4, 3-6, 5-7, 6-3, 6-0 after dropping 11 of the previous 12 games.
“I was playing well, tough conditions against a tough player,” said the 38-year-old, who is competing in his 18th Australian Open and is currently ranked 56.
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Since going on tour in 2002, Wawrinka has taken home 16 championships, including the US Open (2016), Australian Open (2014), and French Open (2015). Even though his days of winning Grand Slams may be over, he has no intention of retiring.
“Hopefully not. I’ll monitor the year’s progress. “It’s only the start of the year,” he remarked, putting down his racquet. “Overall, I’m happy with where I am at the moment.
