Swiss tennis icon Stan Wawrinka has pinpointed the single most formidable opponent from his storied 24-year career, singling out Rafael Nadal as the ultimate challenge, particularly on the Spaniard's beloved clay courts.
The Clay Court Colossus: Nadal's Unmatched Challenge
As he approaches retirement at the close of the 2026 season, the 40-year-old Wawrinka reflected on his epic battles against the sport's dominant quartet. With 16 ATP Tour singles titles to his name, including Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open, French Open, and US Open, Wawrinka has triumphed over the very best.
Despite being a compatriot and Davis Cup teammate of Roger Federer, Wawrinka reserved his highest praise for Nadal's relentless intensity. Speaking on the Nothing Major podcast, he recounted the brutal 2017 French Open final. "I was constantly watching the clock, hoping to reach the one-hour mark before he won," Wawrika admitted.
He described the unique pressure of facing Nadal at Roland Garros, where his high backhand shots create a suffocating rhythm. "You feel like every single ball is coming at you, and you don't see any option to hit a winner or push him out of the court," he explained.
Enjoying the Djokovic Masterclass Despite Defeats
Wawrinka's record against Novak Djokovic stands at a daunting six wins to 21 losses, just two defeats fewer than his tally against Federer. His major triumphs in Paris and New York, however, were sealed by defeating the Serbian legend in four-set finals.
Interestingly, Wawrinka expressed a peculiar enjoyment in facing Djokovic, even in heavy defeat. "He's the one I felt happy to play against," he revealed, recalling a 6-0, 6-3 loss at the 2014 ATP Finals. "Even if he destroys you, you're kind of happy because you're looking at the perfect tennis player in front of you."
Dismissing the 'Big Five' Narrative
While Andy Murray's three Grand Slams and 11 major finals often see him included in the 'Big Four' conversation alongside Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, Wawrinka firmly rejected any notion of a 'Big Five' that included himself.
"It bothered me when people talked about the 'Big Five'," he stated unequivocally. He emphasised the gulf he perceives between himself and that elite group, calling comparisons with Murray "a lack of respect for them and especially for Murray."
As the tennis world prepares for Wawrinka's farewell season, his candid reflections offer a rare insight into the hierarchy of modern tennis greatness from a man who challenged its pinnacle.
