Stan Wawrinka marked his first Grand Slam win since Wimbledon 2024 with a gritty comeback victory over Laslo Djere at the Australian Open, turning back the clock on Monday night in Melbourne.
The 40-year-old, who has announced this will be the final season of his 24-year professional career, opened his campaign with a 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-7 (7-4) win, snapping a five-year drought without a match victory at the season-opening major.
Wawrinka looked in danger of another early exit after Djere claimed the opening set, but backed by an energised crowd, the former champion lifted his intensity to take the next two sets and move within touching distance of the second round. Djere forced a tie-break in the fourth, yet Wawrinka held firm, sealing the contest
when his opponent sent a forehand into the net after a long rally.
"It has been a long journey, with so many memories here," Wawrinka said. "The only reason I keep coming back is because of the love you give me. It was special to be on court again at a Grand Slam. "
Reflecting on his final season, the three-time major winner added that the competitive fire still burns, even if the body now requires careful management. "I'm not young anymore, so I have to be smart. But this is why I train hard every day - to compete with the best. I'm happy to win and play at least one more match here. "
Wawrinka will face French qualifier Arthur Gea next, after Gea produced one of the surprises of the opening round by defeating 17th seed Jiri Lehecka in straight sets.
Elsewhere, Felix Auger-Aliassime's tournament ended prematurely after the Canadian retired with cramp while trailing Nuno Borges, while home favourite Alex de Minaur cruised into round two with a straight-sets win over Mackenzie McDonald. Daniil Medvedev and Casper Ruud also progressed without major trouble.
Data Debrief
At 40 years and 296 days, Wawrinka became the second-oldest player to win a men's singles match at the Australian Open, behind only Ivo Karlovic. His serving efficiency stood out, winning 86% of first-serve points, underlining that experience can still tilt the balance on the biggest stage.
