Wawrinka Prepares for Exciting Duel with Musetti in Athens
Musetti must clinch the Athens title to secure a spot in Turin
November 03, 2025
Andrew Eichenholz/ATP Tour
Stan Wawrinka triumphs over Botic van de Zandschulp in a thrilling three-set match this Monday in Athens.
By ATP Staff
Will the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Hellenic Championship witness another iconic moment from ‘Stan the Man’?
On Monday, Wawrinka electrified the local audience in Athens by overcoming Botic van de Zandschulp with scores of 2-6, 7-6(5), 7-5 to advance to the second round. For the former ATP No. 3 player, the thrill of such a comeback never loses its charm.
“A significant reason I continue competing is the emotional highs, and the immense support I receive from fans—that energy is unparalleled,” Wawrinka expressed. “It’s truly incredible, and I know that once I retire, finding that feeling will be impossible.”
The Swiss legend is aware that his upcoming match against second seed Lorenzo Musetti will be a formidable challenge. If Musetti captures the ATP 250 title this week, he will earn his first-ever qualification for the Nitto ATP Finals.
“He faces a major hurdle in achieving that goal, which is crucial for him,” Wawrinka noted. “It’s definitely a big challenge. I’ve been following his performances this year, and I’m eager to see how I measure up against him.”
In other matches, qualifier Eliot Spizzirri took down Laslo Djere 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-2 in their first-ever Lexus ATP Head2Head encounter. Starting the season ranked No. 228, the American has surged to No. 86 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings with this victory. He aims to continue his ascent against sixth seed Nuno Borges.
Miomir Kecmanovic is set to face third seed Luciano Darderi after defeating Kamil Majchrzak 7-6(4), 7-6(4). Damir Dzumhur also advanced, overcoming Jacob Fearnley with a score of 6-4, 6-2.
