Swiss · Lausanne, Switzerland · Born 28 March 1985Three-time Grand Slam champion and Swiss legend known for his fearsome backhand.
Stan Wawrinka was born on 28 March 1985 in Lausanne, Switzerland. He turned professional in 2002 and spent years in Roger Federer's shadow before emerging as a major champion in his own right. He won three Grand Slams: the Australian Open 2014, the French Open 2015 and the US Open 2016. Each of those wins came from outside the top seed, cementing his reputation as the ultimate big-match performer. Wawrinka is renowned for his explosive single-handed backhand, one of the most fearsome shots in tennis history. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 3 in the world.
He is most famous for defeating Novak Djokovic in the 2015 French Open final to claim his second Grand Slam title.
His one-handed backhand — perhaps the most powerful ever seen in professional tennis — has been called the most beautiful shot in the game by Roger Federer himself.
Did You Know?How They Played
Wawrinka possesses one of the most devastating one-handed backhands in modern tennis, capable of generating tremendous power and precision from both defensive and offensive positions. His aggressive baseline game is built around heavy groundstrokes, particularly his signature backhand down the line, and he excels at turning defense into attack.
Lasting Impact
Wawrinka proved that players could achieve Grand Slam success later in their careers, winning all three of his major titles after age 28 in an era dominated by the Big Four.
Career Honours
- Australian Open 2014
- Roland Garros 2015
- US Open 2016
- Olympic Gold Beijing 2008 (doubles)
Swiss Athletes