ATP Tour

Emotional Wawrinka says goodbye to New York: 'I'm gonna miss it big time'

Stan Wawrinka's US Open journey came to an end on Monday, when he fell 6-7(4), 6-7(3), 0-6 to Matteo Berrettini in the opening round.

With Wawrinka set to retire later this year, the match marked his final appearance at a Grand Slam tournament and gave him the opportunity to reflect on what New York has meant to him throughout his career. The Swiss star won the third of his three major crowns in New York in 2016, when he defeated Novak Djokovic in the final.

"It has been 20 years since I first came to New York," Wawrinka said during the post-match ceremony. "I remember the first time I came here. It was impressive for me to feel the New York vibe and the energy of this tournament.

"But over the years, I have received so much support and love. Because of you [the fans] I really enjoyed it and I found a way to play my best tennis here."

Monday's match on Grandstand turned into a celebration of Wawrinka's career, with the packed crowd rallying behind the three-time major champion and roaring for every point he won. Wawrinka later thanked the crowd, admitting that their support was among the reasons he had continued competing.

"Tonight, again, was the reason why I kept playing until 41," Wawrinka said to the crowd. "[It is because of] the moments like you gave me tonight, like you gave us tonight. This is an amazing sport."

Wawrinka received a last-minute wild card into the tournament, giving the former World No. 3 an opportunity to complete his Grand Slam farewell in New York. The 41-year-old, who made his main-draw debut in 2005, finishes his US Open career with a 46-17 tournament record. In addition to his 2016 crown, Wawrinka also reached the semi-finals in 2013 and 2015.

"I am super grateful for the wild card because it was important for me to have the opportunity to finish playing all four Grand Slams here in New York," Wawrinka shared. "I'm gonna miss it for sure. I'm gonna miss it big time."