Having first encountered each other on the court as emerging talents in the world of tennis, Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka met again on Philippe-Chatrier Court, both now established icons in the sport preparing to enter the final stages of their careers. After nineteen years and achieving six grand slam titles between them, they had their 23rd contest. Now at ages 37 and 39, this encounter was the second oldest at Roland Garros in a span of half a century. Wawrinka emerged triumphant, owing his dominating victory to his controlled, yet lethal strikes against Murray, who seemed unable to keep pace. The score was 6-4, 6-4, 6-2, allowing Wawrinka to step into the second round of the French Open.
Murray expressed disappointment at his performance. He didn’t arrive with soaring expectations due to less-than-ideal preparations, but he wished he’d fared better. While many are aware of the challenges Murray has been facing, Wawrinka has also had a difficult year, coming to Paris with merely a pair of ATP wins in 2024. Nevertheless, at the very place where he experienced one of his most significant triumphs, he played with an unleashed spirit, a formidable front-foot offensive, and a good control of his unforced errors.
Murray lacked the power to ward off Wawrinka’s robust, aggressive strikes and struggled with mobility, which was more evident, especially during crucial moments in the first two sets. Following another emotional reunion, possibly their last, the two stalwarts lingered for a heartfelt hug and exchanged extensive words.
Wawrinka relayed his emotions after the match, stating that they’ve played numerous times over two decades and with their careers nearing the end, emotions were running high. Murray, who hinted at his retirement after the summer, possibly played his last singles match at the French Open. Despite his evident disappointment, he took a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the crowd from all around the court.
Since recuperating from a damaged ankle, Murray’s performance on the clay court has been subpar, managing to win only one out of four matches. Ahead of the grass court season, he is looking to pick up the pace on his preferred surface as he races against time. Murray acknowledges the toll the years have taken on his body. He expresses that while it demands intensive training for him to keep up, he continues to find pleasure in staying competitive despite the imperfections.
Meanwhile, Zverev, despite being amidst an ongoing public trial on alleged accusations of physically abusing his ex-partner Brenda Patea, has not been barred from appearing at Roland Garros. Amélie Mauresmo, the competition’s director, clarified the issue, emphatically stating their stance to consider Zverev innocent until proven guilty, thereby permitting him to take part. Zverev, who denies the charges, will face trial in Berlin starting Friday concurrently with the tournament.
Mauresmo also revealed an interesting tidbit on Rafael Nadal, a 14-time champion at Roland Garros. The management had planned a farewell ceremony, anticipating it possibly being Nadal’s last appearance. However, Nadal declined as his future plans remain uncertain, keeping open the possibility of playing again next year.