Stan Wawrinka Exclusive: 'To beat Novak in RG final was really special'

Stan Wawrinka's 2015 Roland Garros triumph wasn't just a win; it was a statement. A thunderous declaration that on his day, he could dismantle even Novak Djokovic on his favoured surface. And honestly, who wouldn't want to relive that moment?

In a recent interview, Wawrinka opened up about that iconic victory, calling it "really special." Now, that might sound like understatement of the year, but coming from the often-stoic Swiss maestro, it speaks volumes. We're talking about a final where he didn't just beat Djokovic; he bludgeoned him with a brand of power hitting that left everyone, including Novak, shell-shocked. The sheer audacity of those single-handed backhands, ripping across the court with venom! It was a performance for the ages.

The numbers from that match barely scratch the surface of the story. It wasn't just about the winners; it was about when they came. Every time Djokovic seemed to gain momentum, Wawrinka responded with an even more ferocious onslaught. It was psychological warfare disguised as brutal hitting. Remember that fourth set? Djokovic, the world number one, looked utterly bewildered, like a chess grandmaster suddenly facing a player who'd just decided to throw the board across the room.

What's fascinating is how that win cemented Wawrinka's place in the pantheon of Grand Slam champions. He wasn't just another player who got lucky; he was a three-time major winner who’d conquered the very best. He had already defeated Nadal in the Australian Open final the year before, proving he had the mental fortitude to go all the way. But that Roland Garros victory over Djokovic? That elevated him to another level.

But here's the thing: Wawrinka's career, while brilliant, feels like it could have been even more. Injuries have undoubtedly taken their toll. The question that always lingers is: How many more Slams could he have won if he'd stayed fully fit? He possessed a rare combination of raw power and delicate touch, a cocktail that, when mixed correctly, was virtually unplayable. He wasn't afraid to take risks, to go for broke, even when the pressure was at its peak. That's what made him such a compelling player to watch.

Let's be honest, comparing eras is always a tricky business. But in today's game, dominated by the likes of Alcaraz and Sinner, you wonder if a player with Wawrinka's sheer firepower could break through. The game has evolved, become faster, more athletic. But the need for that X-factor, that ability to hit through pressure, remains as crucial as ever. Wawrinka had that in spades. He wasn't just hitting the ball; he was imposing his will on the match.

The impact of that 2015 French Open win extends beyond Wawrinka's personal legacy. It serves as a reminder that even in an era dominated by a few giants, upsets are always possible. That a player, on their day, can rise up and conquer anyone. It’s a lesson that resonates even now, as we look ahead to the next generation of players trying to make their mark.

So, what's next for Wawrinka? While he's in the twilight of his career, you can bet he'll still be battling, still be unleashing those thunderous backhands. And who knows, maybe he'll even conjure up one more magical moment before he hangs up his racquet. You just never know with Stan the Man. And that's what makes him so captivating.