Three-time grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka is hoping that he can inspire other players to follow his example after pledging to bring his own bottle to matches on the tour to reduce the use of plastic.
Starting at this week’s Monte Carlo Masters, the Swiss No.2 has started using personalised Evian Soma glass refillable bottles. The initiative came about after Wawrinka spoke with his sponsor about wanting to become more sustainable on the court. Due to the length of tennis matches, thousands of plastic water bottles are consumed during tournaments. At Wimbledon, it is estimated that 250,000 bottles are sold each year.
“I’m extremely happy to start using my evian® Soma® glass refillable bottles. Sustainability is very important to me and I am convinced that each one of us can make a difference every day.” Wawrinka said in a press release.
“As an athlete, I drink a lot of water, so I had the idea to use the new evian® Soma® glass refillable bottles on court. This project means a lot to me and I’m happy that evian® now provides such an offer.”
In recent months the world of tennis has moved to become more sustainable. In November at the season-ending ATP Finals, officials pledged to reduce the environmental impact caused by the eight-day event. Implementing initiatives such as water fountains around the venue and reusable bottles. The campaign was one praised by Wawrinka, who hopes it can be implemented throughout the tour.
“I spoke to my fellow players and the ATP leadership in order to reduce the use of plastic bottles at ATP events. All players received refillable bottles and it was a great initiative which we want to bring to more and more tournaments,” he said.
The 34-year-old isn’t the only player calling for more to be done to make tennis go green. Kevin Anderson, who is the vice-president of the ATP players’ council, has spoken on numerous occasions about doing more for the environment. The South African said he was inspired to do so after watching a documentary on Netflix.
“We are in a fortunate position where we might be able to affect some positive change, no matter how small it might be. Protecting the environment and reducing plastic waste on the Tour is something that I am very passionate about, along with many of my peers.” Anderson stated in 2018.
At this week’s Monte Carlo Masters, Wawrinka experienced a mixed performance. After defeating Lucas Pouille in his opening match, he was knocked out in the second round by Marco Cecchinato after boasting a one-set lead. His next tournament is set to be the Madrid Masters in May.
