Short work with Casper Rod
After the exploitation, tears welled up in Wawrinka’s eyes
Stan Wawrinka puts up an exclamation mark in his first match on home soil in Switzerland. Food native Casper Rudd (ATP 3) is disqualified from the tournament. An emotional victory for the 37-year-old.
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Deserved winning fist – Stan Wawrinka beats Casper Road 6:4, 6:4.
Basel Jakobhall Street upside down for the first time! Stan Wawrinka showed a solid performance against favorite Kasper Rudd and won 6:4, 6:4. After defeating the world number 3, the Vaud native shows how much the victory and the high support from the crowd means to him.
“There are so many emotions in him. Thanks for the support,” Wawrinka says on the field in a shaky voice with tears in his eyes. The spectators respond with thunderous applause. I fought for these feelings – despite my age despite the injuries. I wanted to come back and play in front of you guys.
Wawrinka puts his stamp on the first move in an impressive way. After being cheered by many fans at home, he surprised the world number three with his performance. Especially when you serve yourself, the city of Lausanner is reminiscent of the good old days. Twice the early break is used to make the decision. He only won four points in his second leg – all in the same match up to the important break.
“I was so nervous”
Wawrinka managed to cover up what was on his mind at first. “I was very nervous when I entered the field. I know I can still play very well like I did today. I hope I can build on that. It is a pleasure to play against you and I look forward to seeing you again in a couple of days.”
Having his parents Wolfram and Isabel as well as his daughter Alexia in the stands makes what is probably the biggest win since his comeback even sweeter. On Thursday, Wawrinka will meet American Brandon Nakashima (ATP 44) in the round of 16.
“Creator. Troublemaker. Reader. Tv nerd. Proud beer advocate. Unable to type with boxing gloves on. Introvert. Certified zombie practitioner. Thinker.”
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