Swiss Stan Wawrinka (38) became the oldest player on Thursday to qualify for the third round of the US Open in 32 years, beating Argentinian Tomas Etcheverry (N.34), head series N.30, 7-6 (8/6), 6-7 (7/9), 6-3, 6-2.
In 1991, the American Jimmy Connors, recipient of an invitation, had reached the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows after a heroic journey, at 39 years old.
Former world No.3, titled three times in Grand Slam in as many different cities, Wawrinka is making his comeback this year after being handicapped for a long time by stubborn injuries.
He had notably been operated on twice on the left foot in 2021, and fell to 361st place in the world last year.
Despite his age, the Swiss has not given up on the generosity of his game, as evidenced by his 48 winning shots in the match on Thursday.
Wawrinka did not save himself, not hesitating to run after the balls, to sometimes sign brilliant shots of which he has the secret.
Assigned to a short annex, which allowed him to evolve in a more intimate atmosphere, the current 49th player in the world played a lot with the public, who responded loudly present.
In the third round, Wawrinka will be opposed to the Italian Jannik Sinner, sixth player in the world, easy winner of his compatriot Lorenzo Sonego, 6-4, 6-2, 6-4.
