Stan Wawrinka may have been ranked outside the top-100 for quite some time, but he still believes he has what it takes to be a member of the top-100 club.
Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion and a former world No. 3, exited the top-100 in July 2024. At one point, the Swiss tennis player was ranked as low as No. 236 in the world. A bit interestingly, the 40-year-old started the 2025 season as the 158th-ranked player in the world and concluded it at the same spot.
A couple of days ago, it was officially confirmed that Wawrinka would be back for the 2026 season after receiving a wildcard into the ATP 250 tournament in Auckland.
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Wawrinka: I hope to rejoin the top-100... I also want to take part in all major tournaments
For me, it's all about competition. It is also an opportunity to push myself, to reach my full potential, to give the best of myself. I continue to train hard to be in top shape during tournaments and matches. I hope to re-enter the top 100 in 2026, participate in major tournaments, continue to progress, and see where I stand at the end of the year. Even after 20 years on the tour, I still love this sport just as much. I am passionate about tennis and the emotions I feel while playing in different cities and at different tournaments," the former world No. 3 said.
Wawrinka had a very rough start to 2025 as he lost his opening four matches before finally clinching his first win of the year in mid-February. With that being said, the Swiss basically won't have any points to defend at the start of the 2026 season.
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If Wawrinka manages to do well in Auckland and also pick up some points at the Australian Open, he could quickly return to the top-100. However, it is easier said than done for the Swiss, who will turn 41 in March.
