Sebastian Baez sends heartfelt message to Stan Wawrinka after beating him at the United Cup

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Sebastian Baez continued his blistering start to 2026 with a win over the three-time Grand Slam champion.

The Argentine defeated Wawrinka in straight sets, 7-5, 6-4, in the United Cup quarterfinals.

Baez’s win over Wawrinka was his third this week, having already taken down Taylor Fritz and Jaume Munar in the group stages.

Delighted with the win, Baez took the time to praise Wawrinka during his post-match interview.

Sebastian Baez says ‘big legend’ Stan Wawrinka motivated him

The 25-year-old was honored to have played Wawrinka, a man 15 years his senior, in his final year as a professional.

“I didn’t feel it [the pressure] really, because I know I’m playing a big legend, Stan [Wawrinka],” said Baez.

“Congrats to him, because he had a big career, he motivated me and more kids to play tennis, so thank you, Stan, for sharing the court with me, and all the best.”

Why do you think Stan Wawrinka was never considered to be on the same level as Andy Murray?

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Baez was then asked if he found it difficult playing someone that he looks up to.

“Of course, but I don’t know, I really enjoyed my time on the court today,” he said.

“I want to thank all the Argentinian people here, always on the court, I feel that love and support, so thank you guys.

“It’s an honor, I love to represent my country, it’s a big motivation for me, and of course, I’m happy to be on the court, healthy.

“I’m happy to be here and enjoy my time here, because I play with many guys with a big level, like Stan, Fritz.”

During commentary for Sky Sports, Australian tennis legend John Fitzgerald weighed in with his thoughts.

“I think anyone who plays Stan in this final year of his, it’s going to be a treat, whether you beat him or not, just to be on the court with him,” he said.

“The crowd acknowledges Stan; he’s thanking them. 

“But this young man [Sebastian Baez] is a serious player. 

“I love watching him play, he’s skillful, has a variety of shot-making.

“Obviously coached well, and he’s a competitor, a very, very quick competitor.

“He deserved that win; he was the better player.”

Baez has been one of the most impressive ATP singles players at this year’s United Cup.

ATP Players at the 2026 United Cup

He’s one of just three ATP players (with Stefanos Tsitsipas and Hubert Hurkacz) who remain unbeaten in singles.

If he can maintain that form throughout 2026, the Argentine could be set for a big year.

Where Will Stan Wawrinka head next on his farewell tour?

Wawrinka will be retiring from tennis at the end of 2026, but his United Cup performances have shown that he still has more left in the tank.

His next stop is the ASB Classic in Auckland, an event for which he received a wild card.

Ben Shelton is the top seed at the event, followed by Casper Ruud and Jakub Mensik.

Wawrinka will want to pick up a few wins in New Zealand, but doesn’t yet know if he’ll need to make the trip back to Australia…

Despite winning the 2014 title, Wawrinka hasn’t been given an Australian Open wild card.

The decision is controversial, to say the least, but there’s still time for the tournament organisers to offer him a spot in the main draw.

If they don’t, Wawrinka will have played his final match at the event where he won his maiden Grand Slam title.

Only time will tell whether we will see Wawrinka line up in the 128-man draw, but we certainly hope he does…

The 2026 Australian Open is scheduled to begin on Sunday, January 18.