Former world No. 3 Stan Wawrinka has confirmed to L’Equipe that he plans to make his long-awaited comeback at the Monte Carlo Masters in April. Wawrinka, 36, hasn’t played since last year’s March due to a foot surgery.
Wawrinka hinted over the weekend that he’s targeting Monte Carlo for his comeback. A few days ago, Wawrinka posted a photo from the Monte Carlo tennis club. “Soon,” Wawrinka wrote along with a tennis ball emoji and a fire emoji.
On Tuesday, Wawrinka confirmed to L’Equipe that he indeed plans to make his return at the Monte Carlo Masters.
Wawrinka has had success in Monte Carlo
Wawrinka’s first big result in Monte Carlo came in 2009, when he made the semifinal before losing to Novak Djokovic.
Five years later, Wawrinka claimed his first Monte Carlo title after recovering from a set down in the final to beat fellow compatriot Roger Federer. Wawrinka will be 37 when he makes his comeback. Recently, Wawrinka explained to the French Open website why he is refusing to walk away from the game even though he will be 37 later this month.
“Yes, Roland-Garros, yes,” Wawrinka told the French Open website. “People often ask me why I’m trying to come back after my injury and carry on, but it’s because I’m passionate about tennis, I love the spectators.
When I walk out on court, I make sure I remember that it’s a game. The whole basis of tennis is that we tell children to “go and play”! A lot of people forget that when they turn professional: they see tennis as a job.
What motivates me the most is reminding myself that I’m going to play, have fun and enjoy myself!” Wawrinka hasn’t played in Monte Carlo since 2019. In his last appearance at the tournament, Wawrinka was beaten by Marco Cecchinato in the second round. The Monte Carlo Masters is set to take place between April 10-17.