ATP Basel: Stan Wawrinka back to old coach - and old strength?
Stan Wawrinka showed one of the best performances of the season in his two-set win over Casper Ruud in Basel. Both the level of the Swiss and a man in his box provided topics for conversation.
by Michael Rothschädl
last edit:
Oct 26, 2022, 09:27 am
By Michael Rothschädl from Basel
It was written on Stan Wawrinka's face on Tuesday evening: This sport means the world to the now 37-year-old. And it is victories like the one against Casper Ruud that drive the three-time Grand Slam winner to work on a comeback again in the autumn of his career after a long injury break. In any case, the victory against the Norwegian – in front of daughter Alexia, ex-wife Ilham and his parents – celebrated the former world number three with tears in his eyes.
Even just under an hour after the success, Wawrinka seemed emotionally touched. In the obligatory press conference, however, the joy of the victory outweighed the Swiss - and above all the performance presented. "It's something very special. It's very emotional to be back here in Basel with the Swiss fans," said the 37-year-old after the match. "It's always been great for me to play here, but it's always been difficult because I'm always nervous when I step on this pitch. I always want to do my best."
Wawrinka retrieves Norman
Victories like these are essential, emphasized Wawrinka: "This is one of the main reasons why I keep playing." The last two years have been tough, with the injuries and the operation. "Coming back wasn't easy, I was struggling to get back in shape both physically and as a game," said Wawrinka. "To do that here in Switzerland tonight is obviously very special and I hope I can continue to play well."
The 37-year-old has also made a surprising change. Long-term coach Magnus Norman was back in Basel after a long absence. And the Norwegian will continue to work alongside the three-time major winner in the coming weeks - including the Australian Open. According to Wawrinka, he would like to "close" his book together with the trainer. Preferably with a sense of achievement like this Tuesday evening in Basel.