Three-time grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka believes rising stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have surpassed the legendary "Big 3". Speaking to esteemed journalist Reem Abulleil on 23/2 during the Dubai Championships, Wawrinka stated, "The next generation will always be better than the previous one. You can look at the level of Sinner and Alcaraz. It is incredibly high." When asked directly if Alcaraz and Sinner are better than Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal, Wawrinka affirmed his belief.
Wawrinka elaborated on his assessment, saying, "I think so if you look at the current level of Alcaraz and Sinner. Djokovic is still competing with them, and as a general tennis fan, it is great to watch that." He also shared his personal experiences: "I have had the opportunity to play Jannik many times. The recent encounters have been very difficult. I hope I can meet Alcaraz once before retiring."
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Wawrinka (left) shakes hands with Sinner after their third-round match at the 2023 US Open, on Louis Armstrong Stadium, New York, USA on 3/9/2023. Photo: Reuters |
Wawrinka (left) shakes hands with Sinner after their third-round match at the 2023 US Open, on Louis Armstrong Stadium, New York, USA on 3/9/2023. Photo: Reuters
Wawrinka himself is a three-time grand slam winner, having claimed the 2014 Australian Open, 2015 Roland Garros, and 2016 US Open. He, along with Andy Murray, was often considered a player whose level approached that of the legendary "Big 3". In early 2026, Wawrinka announced that this year would mark his final season in professional tennis.
The Swiss player initially defeated Sinner in their two initial encounters at the 2019 US Open and Antwerp Open. However, as Sinner ascended to the sport's elite and Wawrinka neared the end of his career, the Italian talent dominated their subsequent matches. Sinner bested the 40-year-old veteran at Wimbledon, the US Open, Rotterdam, and Indian Wells, with Wawrinka managing to win only two sets across these matches.
Currently competing at the Dubai Championships in the UAE, Wawrinka secured an opening-round victory over Benjamin Hassan with a score of 7-5, 6-3. The world number 99 player is scheduled to face Daniil Medvedev at 17h today, 25/2, in the second round.
Reflecting on the evolution of the sport, Wawrinka noted key differences between today's tennis and that of a decade ago. "Slight changes in playing conditions and balls have made tournaments a bit 'slower'. The playing style is a bit different", he observed. Despite these shifts, his philosophy remains consistent: "But overall, I always try to improve myself, play my best tennis, and find ways to deal with every opponent."
By Vy Anh
