Stan Wawrinka was one of the few players who managed to clinch a Grand Slam title during the ‘big three’ era.
Wawrinka, who announced on Friday that the 2026 ATP season will be his last, claimed his first major at the Australian Open in 2014.
The Swiss put together an incredible campaign that included victories over Novak Djokovic and Tomas Berdych en route to the final, where he met Rafael Nadal.
He conquered the Spaniard in four sets to hoist the trophy in Melbourne, which marked his first of three major championships.
Many thought Wawrinka’s triumph was simply a one-off, but tennis legend Pete Sampras thought the then-28-year-old was the ‘real deal’.
Pete Sampras’ praise for Stan Wawrinka back in 2014
Analysing the final, Sampras told BBC: “Wawrinka was moving well, wasn’t nervous and was pretty relaxed. He had a great rhythm and was hitting his backhand so smoothly.
“He was outplaying Nadal and was up a set and a break when the back issue came up. It was an uncomfortable moment for the Spaniard, and I thought he would stop, but he continued to play.
Why do you think Stan Wawrinka was never considered to be on the same level as Andy Murray?
“This will hopefully be the beginning for Wawrinka. The win over Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals was a big moment. He got through it, he’s now a Grand Slam champion and is on his way.
“I think the right person won. He played great. He’s got a big serve, moves well and has a good touch at the net – he’s the real deal.
“I’m not sure he’s quite up there with Nadal or Djokovic yet, as they have been winning majors for years, but now he is over the hurdle of winning a Grand Slam. If he keeps it up, he’ll be up in that category and deservedly so.”
Pat Cash’s praise for Stan Wawrinka after the Australian Open final
Sampras was not the only great who had high praise for Wawrinka and his team after the 2014 Australian Open final.
Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash credited his coach, Magnus Norman, who was appointed in April 2013, and quickly guided Wawrinka to Grand Slam success.
The 1% Club – Tennis Edition
Cash said: “Wawrinka’s coach Magnus Norman has done a fantastic job in toughening him up. He has got the game and has been working hard, but Norman has got him fitter and [has] got him believing he can beat these top players.
“It’s great to see someone as talented as Wawrinka, who is also a really nice guy, do well.”
Wawrinka went on to win Roland Garros in 2015 and the US Open in 2016 with Norman in his corner.
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