Three-time major champion Stan Wawrinka felt the love at the US Open after being given an emotional send-off following the final Grand Slam match of his career.
The 41-year-old Swiss is retiring at the end of the season and looked close to tears as he received a rapturous reception after a straight-set defeat by Italy’s Matteo Berrettini.
Wawrinka, who won the US Open in 2016, was initially overlooked by tournament organisers for a wildcard, but was given a last-minute reprieve following American recipient Patrick Kypson’s withdrawal.
The belated decision can be considered well justified given the thousands who packed into the 8,000-capacity Grandstand court at Flushing Meadows.
Wawrinka made heart gestures with his fingers, and put his hand on his heart, at the end of an enjoyable contest to illustrate his appreciation.
With huge cheers already ringing his ears, the former world number three encouraged the crowd to make more noise before knocking balls into the stands as souvenirs of the occasion.
“One of the reasons I played until 41 was to live these moments,” said Wawrinka, who also won the Australian Open in 2014 and the French Open in 2015.
“I’m very grateful for this wildcard. It was very important for me to finish here, where I won a Grand Slam 10 years ago. I want to thank you all for all these years.”
