2015 Preview: ATP No. 4, Stan Wawrinka

Stan Wawrinka emerged from the shadow of Roger Federer last year, and by the end of the season he was so puffed up that he was volubly criticizing his compatriot’s wife, Mirka, during a match between the two men in London.

That isolated bit of drama aside, Wawrinka earned a revision of his nickname in 2014; just call him Stan the Occasional Man. For his year was one of peaks and valleys, although he managed to secure a privileged place in the Top 5 thanks mainly to his maiden major title, won at the Australian Open. He also won his first Masters title, by defeating Federer in Monte Carlo, but took early losses at Indian Wells, Miami, and Roland Garros.

After a dismal fall, Wawrinka stepped up and made the semis of the ATP World Tour Finals—where he lost to Federer after holding four match points. Yet it was Wawrinka who Federer lauded after each man won a singles match, and a doubles match together, in Switzerland’s Davis Cup-winning tie.

Wawrinka has a big, big game. He may not move as well as the three men ranked immediately above him—or, for that matter, many ranked below him—but if he can take care of his serve better and become a more dangerous and proficient returner, his game could go up another notch.

Wawrinka ought to focus on mounting a good defense of his title at the Australian Open. He will undoubtedly feel pressure there, and his confidence has waxed and waned considerably for a man of his accomplishments. If he gets off on the wrong foot, he could backslide, with the emerging youngsters of the ATP ready to take advantage.

Although Wawrinka bookended his year with a good showing at the ATP World Tour Finals and a Davis Cup win, he never did develop the consistency that suggests he’s comfortable being a permanent fixture at the top of the game.

For more 2015 season previews, click here.