Article by Mihai Șovei – Published Saturday, January 24, 2026, 12:33 / Updated Saturday, January 24, 2026 12:33
Stan Wawrinka (40, #139 ATP) was eliminated in the third round of the Australian Open after losing to Taylor Fritz (28, #9 ATP), 6-7(5-7), 6-2, 4-6, 4-6 in his last match in Melbourne.
At the end of the match, the Swiss said goodbye to the Australian crowd with a funny moment, enjoying a beer right on the tennis court.
VIDEO. Wawrinka said goodbye to Melbourne with a beer
Former champion Stan Wawrinka said goodbye to Melbourne Park in a unique way. Stan Wawrinka opened a can of beer with Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley in the middle of the 'John Cain' arena after playing and losing his final match of the tournament.
Never change, Stan.
Cheers 🍻 pic.twitter.com/yt0AmTYpBh
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 24, 2026
This gesture refers to the player's statement at the end of the second round match against Arthur Gea, when Stan stated that he was exhausted and would drink a beer.
“I'm exhausted. It's my last Australian Open so I'm trying to last as long as possible. I'm not the youngest anymore, so I need extra energy from the audience. I will always leave everything on the field… I will always try to give my best, to overcome myself. Thank you very much for being here. Maybe I'll go have a beer.”
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The 2014 champion will retire at the end of the season. Ranked 139th in the world, he was given a wildcard to make his final appearance at Melbourne Park and made the most of the opportunity.
At the end of the match with Fritz, Wawrinka sent them a farewell message.
“Good luck everyone! Normally we talk on court after a final. Today is not a final, so I won't take too much time. Thank you for the wildcard invitation, to have one last chance to say goodbye to the people of Melbourne. Unfortunately, it was my last experience as a tennis player here. I have had so many emotions here in the last 20 years. I'm sorry to leave, but it's been an amazing journey.”
