Stan shares a beer on court as his AO career ends

Stan Wawrinka wrapped up his career with a fourth-round loss and then shared a beer on court to make the end of his Australian Open career on Saturday.

The 40-year old three-time Grand Slam champion lost a battle to Taylor Fritz 7-6 (5), 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 and walked off court for the final time at the event where he won his first Grand Slam title 12 years ago

The Swiss will retire at the end of this season after more than two decades in the sport in a career overshadowed somewhat by compatriot Roger Federer.

Wawrinka was farewelled after the match by TD Carig Tiley, with the pair sharing beers which Stan retrieved from his bag.

With his family and longtime coach Magnus Norman in the stadium, the fans gave the right-hander with perhaps the most beautiful and lethal backhand in the game a standing ovation.

“At the end of last year, I felt that retiring was the right thing to do,” Wawrinka said. “But this season is not a farewell tour.

“I wanted one last chance to say goodbye to the people of Melbourne; there are so many emotions here.

“I’m sad to leave but this has been an amazing journey.”

Main photo:- Stan Wawrinka shares a tinnie with Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley