Stan sidesteps the shadow of Roger with home victory

Stan Wawrinka stepped out of the shadow of 10-time champion Roger Federer at the Swiss Indoors on Wednesday, soaking up the home support with a 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 first-round win over Adrian Mannarino.

The 39-year-old who has played in 17 editions here over 21 years became the oldest man to ever win a match at the St Jakobshalle, the hometown venue dominated throughout his career by the now-retired legend Federer who won 75 matches at the tournament.

Wawrinka’s best showing in Basel was a pair of semi-finals, the last one 13 years ago.

But the three-time Grand Slam winner rolled back the years as he headed into a Thursday meeting with US youngster Ben Shelton.

“Playing at home is special,” he said. I was happy to win tonight. It was a great win for me and I’m happy to be back tomorrow.”

Wawrinka, who produced 32 winners including 13 aces, earned his first victory over France’s Mannarino after losing three  previous meetings.

“The most important thing was to stay positive with myself, be mentally tough and stick to the plan.

“I’m happy it went my way tonight.”

Wawrinka said that the three Basel editions since Federer retired have been a joy for him, with crowd support finally shifting in his favour.

“I’m loving it here, I’m getting the support. You always want to find a way to play well at home.

“It was never easy for me here, but over the last three years it’s been different.”

The Swiss secured victory with a break in the final game of the match against his fellow veteran.

The former world No. 3 joins young compatriot Dominic Stricker in the second round after playing a Stockholm semi-final last weekend.