Could this week’s Vanda Pharmaceuticals Hellenic Championship be the stage for another unforgettable ‘Stan the Man’ moment?
Stan Wawrinka thrilled the Greek crowd in Athens on Monday when he powered past Botic van de Zandschulp 2-6, 7-6(5), 7-5 for a place in the second round. For the former No. 3 player in the PIF ATP Rankings, the emotions of such a comeback never get old.
“The main reason why I keep doing it is to be full of emotion, to see that the fans support me and give me so much energy,” Wawrinka said. “It’s still amazing. It’s something I know I won’t find anywhere else the day I retire.”
The Swiss star knows he faces a tough test against second seed Lorenzo Musetti in the next round. If the Italian wins the ATP 250 event this week, he will qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals for the first time.
“He has one [big] challenge for him to get there and of course it’s important for him,” Wawrinka said. “It’s a big challenge [facing him]. He plays so well. I’ve seen him play a lot of games this year, so I’m looking forward to playing against him and seeing where I stand.”
In other action, qualifier Eliot Spizzirri saw off Laslo Djere 1-6, 7-6(6), 6-2 in the pair’s first Lexus ATP Head2Head meeting. The American started the season at number 228 in the world and with the victory is now number 86 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings. He will look to continue his climb against sixth seed Nuno Borges.
Miomir Kecmanovic set up a clash with third seed Luciano Darderi as he ousted Kamil Majchrzak 7-6(4), 7-6(4). Damir Dzumhur also advanced as he defeated Jacob Fearnley 6-4, 6-2.
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