Stan Wawrinka reveals how 'painful loss' to Novak Djokovic ignited his self-belief

Stan Wawrinka highlighted the showdown against ATP legend Novak Djokovic as one of the best matches of his career. He shared how the experience of competing against the former World No. 1 boosted his confidence. However, the Swiss also expressed sadness over narrowly losing to the Serbian star.

The 2013 Australian Open marked one of the most memorable moments in Stan Wawrinka's career. His campaign was halted with a 1-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-7(5), 12-10 defeat against Djokovic in the fourth round. However, despite the disappointing exit, the 39-year-old walked out with something more than just a victory.

Wawrinka recently joined former American ATP pros on the Nothing Major Podcast. When asked about the best match of his career, the Swiss proudly reflected on the unforgettable experience of 2013.

"One of my most important matches was the first time I realized I was able to fight with the number one in the world, the best player, and I was close to winning. I took that as a victory. It was really painful that night to lose because I was so close," he said.

The ATP star also highlighted how this experience positively changed his mindset and his overall ATP rankings.

"The first five years before that, I was always around 20 in the world. I was playing well but always losing against the top players. Even when I had some opportunities, I never believed in myself. After that match, it took me a few months to realize that maybe, if I find a way to push a little more, to do that extra," the 39-year-old added.

Stan Wawrinka faced Novak Djokovic a total of 27 times throughout his professional journey spanning nearly 23 years. Although the Swiss managed to secure just six wins in their encounters, he still has consistently talked about the lessons he gained from each match.

Stan Wawrinka clarifies doubts looming around his retirement decision

2025 Australian Open - Day 3 - Source: Getty

ATP star Stan Wawrinka recently stepped forward to clarify doubts surrounding his retirement from the sport. The 39-year-old reminded fans that the time of his farewell is near. Despite that, he made it clear that tennis is his passion and he hasn't decided a specific moment to call it quits yet.

"I have never said that I am making any decision to retire myself from tennis this year. I've said I'm getting older, and of course I'm near the end, but I'm still playing well and I'm competitive when I play," he said, in an exclusive interview with SpilXperten.

Wawrinka was eliminated from the Australian Open in his opening-round match. Not holding back yet, he will next appear at the Open Sud de France on January 27 for a showdown against Arthur Cazaux.