In a display of timeless grit, Swiss tennis legend Stan Wawrinka has delivered a vintage performance to secure a crucial United Cup victory for Switzerland against France in Perth. The three-time grand slam champion, aged 40, fought for over three hours to overcome world No.29 Arthur Rinderknech in a thrilling three-set epic.
A Marathon Battle at RAC Arena
The match, held at Perth's RAC Arena on Saturday, 3 January 2026, was a classic encounter that stretched for a gruelling 198 minutes. Wawrinka, ranked nearly 130 places below his French opponent, showcased his trademark fighting spirit to claw back from a set down. The final scoreline read 5-7, 7-6(5), 7-6(5) in the Swiss veteran's favour.
Rinderknech, who enjoyed a strong finish to the previous season with deep runs at Wimbledon and the US Open, will rue missed opportunities. The Frenchman fired 17 aces to Wawrinka's six and won an impressive 82% of points on his first serve. He also saved six of the seven break points he faced and hit 44 winners to Wawrinka's 37. Despite these statistics, he could not close out the match.
Bencic Sets the Stage for Swiss Success
Wawrinka's heroics were preceded by a commanding performance from women's world No.11, Belinda Bencic. She made light work of France's Leolia Jeanjean, securing a straight-sets victory 6-2, 6-4. Bencic broke early in both sets, racing to a 4-1 lead in the first and a 4-0 lead in the second, effectively setting the tone for the Swiss team's overall success.
The two victories gave Switzerland an unassailable rubber win in the tie against France, putting them in a strong position in the tournament's group stage.
What's Next for Switzerland?
This double-win sets up a pivotal showdown for Switzerland against Italy on Sunday night. The winner of that clash will take firm control of Group C and be strongly positioned to secure a spot in the United Cup quarter-finals. All eyes will be on whether Wawrinka can carry his magnificent form into the next round.
Wawrinka's triumph is a testament to his enduring class and competitive fire, proving that even in what is expected to be his final year on tour, he remains a formidable force on the global tennis stage.
