After his emotional send-off at the Australian Open, Stan Wawrinka continued his farewell season with one last appearance in Montpellier.
Wawrinka will retire at the end of his 2026 campaign, a decision he made during the offseason.
The Swiss, aged 40, kicked off his last year with a final appearance at the United Cup and an impressive third-round finish at Melbourne Park.
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He won his opening match in Montpellier against Hamad Medjedovic, but was beaten by top seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the round of 16.
After Auger-Aliassime’s straight-sets victory over Wawrinka, he sent a heartfelt message to the three-time major champion on social media.
Felix Auger-Aliassime praises Stan Wawrinka after their match
In a post on Instagram, the Canadian said: “Grateful to have gotten the opportunity to share the court with you at least once during your outstanding career @stanwawrinka85.
“Always hoped I’d have the chance to experience that special backhand of yours. Wishing you all the best for the rest of your season.
“On to Quarters today and hoping for another evening of fun atmosphere in Montpellier.”
Why do you think Stan Wawrinka was never considered to be on the same level as Andy Murray?
Despite the two stars having been on tour for many years, Wawrinka and Auger-Aliassime had never met at a tour-level event.
They played their first ever match in Montpellier, with the 25-year-old coming out on top 6-4, 7-6.
Stan Wawrinka’s next tournament after Montpellier exit
Following his exit from the ATP 250 tournament, Wawrinka’s next appearance on the ATP Tour will come at the Rotterdam Open.
Wawrinka has been awarded a wildcard for the event, which will feature some big names, despite two notable withdrawals.
Both Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev pulled out of the Rotterdam Open after their deep runs at the Australian Open.
The lineup still includes several stars, though, with Alex de Minaur, Jack Draper and Daniil Medvedev set to do battle in the Netherlands.
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