Swiss Stan bows to the Murray mystique

Stan Wawrinka will go into his Roland Garros first-round test against Andy Murray carrying a slight inferiority complex.

Both the 39-year-old Swiss and the Briton who turned 37 this month own three Grand Slam titles – with Wawrinka lifting one of his trio here at the French Open – while his opponent’s prowess rests on the grass with a pair of Wimbledon titles.

But Wawrinka, who also played the 2017 French final, admitted that he feels the Scot has the edge when it comes to overall image and standing in the sport.

“I don’t think my sporting career is at the same level as his. It is true that we have won both three Grand Slam titles, but I don’t feel like I belong in his category,” Wawrinka said.

Back in the day, Murray was often included in a so-called tennis Big 4, with his name added to those of icons Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal along with still-active Novak Djokovic.

But the Scot slipped quietly from the elite conversation once hip problems began to surface in 2017, resulting in several surgeries and a long road to recovery.

“(Andy) deserves much more recognition than me, he is in a superior category,” Wawrinka said as he prepared for a first-round meeting with Murray in Paris.

Murray reached No. 1 in the world in November, 2016, holding the top spot until August, 2017, when his hip troubles kicked in.

“Andy has been able to challenge the Big 3 for many more years than I have,” the Swiss who played his career in the shadow of Federer, added.

“My case is special because I managed to push myself to the limit, but it took me a long time to reach the level necessary to be able to beat the best.” 

Wawrinka said that despite his 97th ranking, he’s not close to hanging up the racquet.

“As long as I continue to feel competitive and can win games, I will do it. 

“I still have fun training and competing. Honestly, I think my level is quite good, 

“I can move around the court correctly and I want to continue.”