Wawrinka Triumphs in Geneva, Enters History Books

Swiss star Stan Wawrinka, 41, made history in Geneva, becoming the oldest player to win an ATP clay-court match since Jimmy Connors in 1994. Wawrinka, a two-time champion in Geneva, secured a 6-2, 4-6, 7-6(5) victory over Raul Brancaccio in his first appearance at the home tournament since 2019.

Wawrinka, who won back-to-back titles in Geneva in 19 and 2017, advanced to the second round where he will face Alex Michelsen, who defeated Sebastian Baes 7-5, 6-3.

“It’s incredible to be back here in Geneva,” said Wawrinka. “These matches are not easy for me, but the crowd has helped me a lot. I want to feel the emotion for the last time. I’m happy to have the chance to play here again.”

The Fairytale continues ✨
Wawrinka wraps up a 6-2 4-6 7-6(5) win over Brancaccio in Geneva!#GonetGenevaOpen pic.twitter.com/rmpupD8r5d

Stefanos Tsitsipas also made a strong debut in Geneva, overcoming Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 6-4, 7-6(8). Tsitsipas, the top seed from Greece, saved two set points in the second set before sealing the win with his sixth match point, securing his 15th victory of the season.

“It was very mentally tough to hold on at the end. I definitely want to thank the crowd for being with me throughout this effort,” said Tsitsipas, who received a wild card for the tournament.

Strong start for Stef 💪
A tough 6-4 7-6(8) win sees @stefanos past Mpetshi Perricard!#GonetGenevaOpen pic.twitter.com/ug33k3PtFH

In the next round, Tsitsipas will face fourth seed and tournament champion Learner Tien, marking their first official meeting on court. Tsitsipas, a former French Open finalist, is building momentum before the Paris Grand Slam, where he reached the final in 2021.

Arthur Rinderknech also advanced, defeating Tiago Augusto Tirante 6-4, 6-1 in just 76 minutes, after withdrawing from his first match in Rome two weeks ago.