"I can barely imagine playing in four years": Taylor Fritz excited for AO clash with 40-year-old Stan Wawrinka

At the 2025 Australian Open, Taylor Fritz was knocked out by a 38-year-old Gael Monfils in the third round.

Twelve months later, the 2024 US Open finalist finds himself back in that stage of the tournament to face another long-time fan favorite: Stan Wawrinka.

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Fritz cruised past Czech Vit Kopriva Thursday, firing 15 aces in a 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory. While the No. 9 seed was disappointed not to serve out the clash at the first time of asking, he was pleased overall with his first straight-set win of the season and the state of his knee heading into the weekend.

“I came out playing really, really well. Definitely the kind of like start to a match that I'm looking for. Just felt very calm, in control,” he told press.

“I felt like I was playing aggressive at the right times. When I didn't have the chance, I was being really solid, not giving away any free points. Just a really good level.

“I'd say my knee has been feeling really good the last couple of days.”

Wawrinka, for his part, survived another marathon contest after outlasting qualifier Arthur Gea in four hours and 34 minutes.

Really, really happy with where it's at right now. And it's giving me a lot of hope that I can continue to do my rehab while still playing and it can keep getting better. Taylor Fritz on the progress his knee is showing

The three-time major winner, playing his final season on tour, is the lone wild card in this year’s men’s draw to post a pair of wins. Fritz wasn’t necessarily surprised to see Wawrinka get through, having practiced with the Swiss at the season-opening United Cup.

“His average time on court per match this year has to be something insane because even United Cup he was battling long three-setters every match. It’s so impressive the level and just the physicality he's still bringing,” the American credited.

“People that compete really well tend to win out over the longer matches. It speaks to how great of a competitor he is.”

At 40, Wawrinka is the oldest man to reach this stage of a Grand Slam event since a 44-year-old Ken Rosewall at the 1978 Australian Open.

Does Fritz, 28, envision himself competing into his 40s? Hardly.

“No, not at all. I can barely imagine playing in four years from now,” he shared.

“I'm excited for it. I think it will be a fun match. Obviously, looked up to Stan for a long time. I know he's playing well.”