Match Reaction
Wawrinka Bids Adieu to Monte-Carlo, Remembers ‘Remarkable’ Face-off with Federer
The Swiss icon, who clinched the Monte-Carlo title in 2014, played his final match on Monday.
April 06, 2026
Corinne Dubreuil/ATP Tour
Stan Wawrinka competes in his farewell match at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters.
By ATP Staff
On Monday afternoon, Stan Wawrinka said his goodbyes to the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters audience, as the 41-year-old wild card faced off against Sebastian Baez in what marked his final appearance at the prestigious event.
As he enters the concluding chapter of his ATP Tour career, the Swiss maestro is seizing the moment to honor the tournaments that have significantly influenced his journey. Monte-Carlo holds a special significance for Wawrinka, as it was here that he secured his sole ATP Masters 1000 title in 2014, triumphing over fellow Swiss Roger Federer in the final.
“I have such amazing memories,” Wawrinka reflected when reminiscing about his title run in the Principality. “Winning my first and only Masters 1000 was extraordinary. I always idolized clay tournaments growing up, watching the specialists, so Monte-Carlo was one of my favorites.”
“I was fortunate enough to win, especially against Roger that year. We were close friends, spending lots of time together leading up to the final. Matches against Roger have always come with their own complexities, but overcoming that to win was truly remarkable.”
That victory is just one chapter in a career that has surpassed even Wawrinka’s own aspirations. Without setting a specific goal to dominate the sport, he ascended to a career-high No. 3 in the PIF ATP Rankings and captured three Grand Slam titles.
When asked to reflect on his journey and the legacy he aspires to leave, Wawrinka emphasized his evolution in mindset over mere trophies.
“I come from a small village, born on a farm, always dreaming of becoming a professional tennis player. My only goal was to give my best every day, pushing my limits without boundaries,” Wawrinka explained in French. “I never had a specific aim of winning a Grand Slam or being No. 1; rather, it was about persistent improvement, and that’s what I’ve focused on throughout my career.”
“At one point, I managed to reach the peak of my potential by clinching Grand Slams and Masters 1000s over several years. But ultimately, it’s my love for the sport and my passion that has fueled my everyday efforts.”
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Far from treating his farewell tour as a celebratory stroll, Wawrinka remains as competitive as ever. Earlier in the year, he became the oldest player since 1978 to reach the third round at the Australian Open.
“That’s the athlete I am: I step on the court to win, not merely to enjoy my last matches,” said Wawrinka. “It’s a challenging road, and while the spotlight catches the action on court, much effort goes unnoticed behind the scenes. At 41, it takes incredible discipline and sacrifice to stay fit.”
“These days can be tough, but in the end, it’s all worth it. My heart is in the game; I love what I do. Knowing this is my final year, I’m determined to make the most of it while soaking in the thrill of victory.”
