Stan Wawrinka’s final match of 2016 was perhaps the best way to sum up his season. Producing a series of world class shots to trouble the best in the world, his consistency halted his ability to succeed.
There has never been any doubt about Wawrinka’s potential, especially his outstanding backhand that many on the tour would dream to have. Facing Andy Murray at the O2 Arena in London, the Swiss hit an impressive 29 winners, but still succumbed in straight sets.
“He made me hesitate a little bit with my game, when to go, when to stay back. That’s why he’s so good. That’s why he’s No. 1. He’s in full confidence. He’s playing the right things.” Wawrinka said of Murray.
“For me it was tough, a tough score also. I think I was starting well, but a few little things can make a big difference against a player like him.”
This season has been one to remember for the 31-year-old Lausanne native. Living up to his reputation of a player who thrives on playing in the big moments, Wawrinka stunned Novak Djokovic to win his third major title at the US Open. He also enjoyed success in his home country, winning his maiden Swiss ATP trophy at the Geneva Open.
Wawrinka’s success hasn’t always been so bright in 2016, particularly in the Master 1000 tournaments. Participating in all nine events, the 31-year-old only reached the quarter final stage twice (Monte Carlo quarter-finals, Montreal semi-finals). Wawrinka has so far participated in 89 masters events in his career, winning his sole trophy in at the 2014 Monte Carlo tournament.
The situation for the US Open champion is a perplexed one. The desire and passion to succeed is there wherever he plays, but his dedication into succeeding in the grand slams are having an adverse effect on his performance elsewhere.
“I don’t have the answer now.” He responded to questions about his lacklustre performance in the Masters. “If I have the answer, I would have changed a long time ago and play better in the Masters 1000’s.”
“ I wish I could play better. I wish I could do better result in Masters 1000. That’s going to be my goal next year. It was the goal already this year, It didn’t happen. You don’t always reach your goal.”
Seeking a way to solve his dilemma, the triple grand slam champion knows better than anybody else that he needs to up his level even more. Even though he will end the year inside the top five for the third consecutive year.
“There’s many things I can improve, I know. But if I look in general, the season is amazing for me. I won a Grand Slam, plus finish in the top five.” Said Wawrinka.
Ending the season with a quartet of titles (US Open, Geneva, Chennai and Dubai), Wawrinka heads towards 2017 confident, but aware that more is required.
