Stan Wawrinka received a last-minute wild card to compete in the US Open, reviving hopes of one final Grand Slam appearance before his planned retirement at the end of the season. The 41-year-old Swiss player, a former US Open champion who defeated Novak Djokovic in the 2016 final, initially believed he had missed the opportunity to participate after the initial wild card selections were announced.

Wawrinka was informed of the unexpected invitation last Wednesday following an injury withdrawal by American player Patrick Kypson, who had originally been granted a wild card. The decision prompted a rapid adjustment by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), allowing Wawrinka to enter the tournament.

Speaking from the Swiss mountains, Wawrinka described the emotional ups and downs of the situation. “It was a bit of roller coaster, of course, because I came back home Monday night from New York,” he said. “So for me, it was in my mind the end of my grand slam career. I would have loved to be here, so I had to accept those emotions by not having the wild card, and I was OK with that. I got the call, I think, [on] Wednesday night or afternoon when I was in the Swiss mountains. So of course I was happy—and then I had to quickly organise to be back here.”

Wawrinka is set to face Italian player Matteo Berrettini in a highly anticipated first-round match scheduled for today. The pairing is notable as both players have established themselves as prominent figures on the ATP Tour.

Wawrinka’s inclusion sparked discussion, as some viewed the initial omission from the wild card list as surprising given his status as a former Grand Slam winner and consistent competitor. The late reinstatement provides the Swiss veteran an opportunity to close his Grand Slam career on his own terms.