Stan Wawrinka Sets New Record at Monte Carlo Masters Despite First-Round Loss
Historic Achievement for Wawrinka
In a remarkable turn of events, Stan Wawrinka shattered a long-standing 33-year-old record previously held by Jimmy Connors, even though he faced defeat in his opening match at the 2026 Monte Carlo Masters on April 6. Competing at the Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the Swiss athlete was up against Sebastian Baez, losing in straight sets with scores of 1-6, 3-4. This match marked Wawrinka's first appearance in a Masters 1000 event this year, following his absence from the Sunshine Double tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami. The 41-year-old had kicked off the year strongly, reaching the third round of the Australian Open before being eliminated in a thrilling four-set match against Taylor Fritz from the USA. Since then, he has participated in several tournaments, including the Open Occitanie, ATP Rotterdam Open, Dubai Tennis Championship, and the Napoli Challenger.
Wawrinka Makes History
Wawrinka has now become the oldest player ever to compete in a Masters 1000 tournament, being the first to participate in such an event since the format was established in 1990, just after celebrating his 41st birthday. This record was formerly held by the eight-time Grand Slam champion, Connors.
Oldest Players to Compete in ATP Masters 1000 Events
| Player | Age | Event |
| Stan Wawrinka | 41 years, 9 days | Monte Carlo Masters 2026 |
| Jimmy Connors | 40 years, 191 days | Miami Masters 1993 |
| Stan Wawrinka | 40 years, 180 days | Shanghai Masters 2026 |
| Ivo Karlovic | 40 years, 165 days | Cincinnati Masters 2019 |
| Ivo Karlovic | 40 years, 17 days | Miami Masters 2019 |
Wawrinka is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of his era, having secured three Grand Slam titles: the Australian Open in 2014, the French Open in 2015, and again in 2016. Additionally, he claimed an Olympic gold medal in Men's Doubles at the 2008 Beijing Games alongside Roger Federer. The 2026 season marks the final chapter of Wawrinka's illustrious career, as he plans to retire at the end of the year.