The tennis world is abuzz with the remarkable comeback of Stan Wawrinka, the 40-year-old Swiss veteran. With his recent victories, he's not just making a comeback; he's doing it in style. Wawrinka, who plans to retire this season, is set to reclaim his place in the Top 100 of the PIF ATP Rankings on Monday, a testament to his enduring talent and determination. But here's where it gets interesting: he'll be the oldest man in the Top 100 by more than two years. This is a feat that's been achieved by only a few, with the last 40-year-old to feature in the Top 100 being the legendary Roger Federer in June 2022. Wawrinka's journey to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. At the Australian Open, he became the oldest man since Ken Rosewall in 1978 to reach the third round, defeating Laslo Djere and Arthur Gea in five-set matches. His victories in Montpellier and Rotterdam this month further solidified his comeback, with a win against 17-year-old Thijs Boogaard in Rotterdam, the second-largest age gap in ATP Tour and Grand Slam history, trailing only Dominic Thiem's 2011 win over Thomas Muster. Wawrinka's age, 40, with his 41st birthday approaching in March, makes him a true testament to the power of perseverance. His career-high ranking of No. 3 in the PIF ATP Rankings after winning the Australian Open in 2014 is a testament to his ability to rise above the competition, even in his later years. As Wawrinka prepares to hang up his racket, his comeback story will undoubtedly inspire tennis fans and players alike, proving that age is just a number when passion and skill are on your side.
