Overview
- Tennis Australia confirmed the main-draw wildcard on January 9, securing the 40-year-old Swiss star’s spot at Melbourne Park.
- Wawrinka has designated 2026 as his final season and called playing the Australian Open at its outset “very special.”
- The former world No. 3 owns three Grand Slam titles, including his breakthrough at the Australian Open in 2014.
- Injury setbacks have contributed to a ranking slide to No. 156, making this entry a recognition of his career stature.
- He joins local players Jordan Thompson and Chris O’Connell among the wildcard recipients, with the tournament beginning January 18.