Stan Wawrinka was unable to control his emotions after losing to Alexei Popyrin in the 2023 Croatia Open final on Sunday, July 30. Wawrinka played in his first tour-level final since 2019 and lost 7-6(5), 3-6, 4-6. After the match, he thanked the audience for their support and shared his passion for tennis in a passionate statement.
During his speech in Umag, Stan Wawrinka was observed sobbing and remarked, “I know it’s so stupid to cry, but I love this sport so much. You make it really special. Amazing week. Hopefully, I can come back. Thank you for your support. Thank you for being here. Hopefully, I see you next year.” (H/T Twitter)
The former No. 3 in the world, who won his first ATP championship in Umag in 2006, had a strong week in the ATP 250 tournament because he didn’t lose a set until the championship match. The Australian Popyrin, 23, was a strong opponent for him. Wawrinka won the opening set in a tie-break but was unable to maintain his level and dropped the following two sets. Wawrinka was obviously affected by the event and the response from the crowd after the game.
Stan Wawrinka had an amazing run in Croatia Open 2023
Stan Wawrinka made a comeback to the competition where he claimed his first victory in 2006. Wawrinka recovered his form and self-assurance in the Croatia Open in Umag following his round three exit from the Wimbledon Championships. Wawrinka was more eager than anyone to compete in the Croatia Open before the competition started. In Umag, he won his first championship on the ATP Tour, and he came back to win it again 17 years later. He admitted feeling ‘aged’ competing in the tournament after his first-round win.
Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam winner, performed admirably to make the Croatia Open final in Umag in 2023. On the Croatian clay, the Swiss star showed his fervor and tenacity throughout the week. Filip Misolic was defeated by Wawrinka in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2, to begin his season. He faced three break points but avoided them all, breaking Misolic four times. He defeated Federico Coria of Argentina in the second round 7-5, 6-1.
The World No. 49 faced Spain’s fourth-seeded Roberto Carballes Baena in the quarterfinal and defeated him in two tight sets, 6-4, 7-5. He defeated Italy’s second-seeded Lorenzo Sonego in the semifinals with a dominant performance, 6-3, 6-4. In the championship match against 57th-ranked Alexei Popyrin, Wawrinka’s streak came to an end. Popyrin prevailed in three sets, 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4. Even though the Swiss star won the opening set, he was unable to win the match. After the match Stan in his speech stated “I love this sport so much.”
Stan Wawrinka’s performance in Umag was outstanding and encouraging, as he put forth a valiant effort in each match while displaying some of his greatest play. This was a difficult one for Wawrinka to accept because he has pretty much won every major award in sports. Even after overcoming knee operations that might have ended his career, he still has a remarkable passion for the game and drives. Fans tweeted their admiration for the Swiss tennis great after witnessing him cry with thanks. Which ultimately shows how great and respected an athlete Stan really is.
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