Get ready for a remarkable comeback story! Stan Wawrinka, at the ripe age of 40, is set to make a grand return to the Top 100 of the ATP Rankings. But here's the twist: he's not just returning; he's doing it with a bang!
According to the ATP's live rankings projection, Wawrinka's impressive start to the season has him poised to enter the Top 100 on Monday. This marks his first appearance in this elite bracket since July 2024.
The Swiss star, known for his unwavering determination, has been on a roll. In January, he turned back the hands of time at the Australian Open, becoming the oldest man since Ken Rosewall in 1978 to reach the third round in Melbourne. Wawrinka's victories over Laslo Djere and Arthur Gea showcased his enduring skills and resilience.
And this is where it gets even more impressive: Wawrinka's age advantage isn't just a one-off. Returning to Europe, he secured main-draw wins in Montpellier and Rotterdam this month. His victory over 17-year-old Thijs Boogaard in Rotterdam created history, with an age gap of 23 years and three months, second only to Dominic Thiem's win over Thomas Muster in 2011.
At 40, with his 41st birthday just around the corner, Wawrinka will be the oldest man in the Top 100 by a significant margin. To put this into perspective, Novak Djokovic, at 38, is currently ranked No. 3, while other veterans like Adrian Mannarino, Marin Cilic, and Roberto Bautista Agut, all 37, are also in the elite bracket. The last 40-year-old to grace the Top 100 was the legendary Roger Federer, who held No. 97 in June 2022.
Wawrinka's journey is a testament to his enduring talent and passion for the game. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 3 in the ATP Rankings after winning his first major title at the Australian Open in January 2014.
So, as we witness Wawrinka's remarkable return, it's a reminder that age is just a number. What do you think? Is Wawrinka's comeback a testament to the power of perseverance, or is it a controversial move that challenges the youth-centric nature of modern tennis? Share your thoughts in the comments!
