Stan Wawrinka Receives Wild Card for Australian Open as Nick Kyrgios Withdraws

Stan Wawrinka, a Wild Card for His Final Competitive Season

Stan Wawrinka has been granted a wild card entry into the Australian Open, marking the beginning of the final season of his professional tennis career. Meanwhile, Australian player Nick Kyrgios has failed to qualify for the tournament. The former world number three, who boasts three Grand Slam titles, announced in December that 2026 will be his last year competing. At 40 years old, Wawrinka clinched his first major title at Melbourne Park in 2014.

"Winning the Australian Open in 2014, my first Grand Slam title, is a milestone in my career, so I am extremely grateful for this wild card," Wawrinka stated. "Having the opportunity to play at the Australian Open at the beginning of my final year on the tour means a lot to me."

Currently ranked 156th in the world, Wawrinka secured his most recent of 16 titles in Geneva back in 2017.

Kyrgios Focuses on Doubles

Former Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios announced his decision to withdraw from the men's singles competition at his home tournament, stating that he does not feel prepared for matches that require five sets. At 30 years old, he has fallen to 670th in the world rankings due to injury struggles over recent seasons but will compete in the doubles event, where he won the title in 2022 alongside fellow Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis.

"After some good discussions with Tennis Australia, I have decided to focus on doubles for this Australian Open," Kyrgios wrote on social media. "I am fit and back on the court, but five-set matches present a different challenge and I am not fully prepared to face that."

"This tournament means everything to me, but I prefer to make way for someone who is ready to seize their moment. It's all part of the process, and I will return next year ready to compete. See you on the court."