“I think Stan Wawrinka has been a bit underrated”

Magnus Norman is one of the 'culprits' that Stan Wawrinka has been one of the great exceptions to tennis in a circuit dominated in the last two decades by the Big Four formed by Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.

In statements collected by the ATP, the Swedish extenista, who has trained Wawrinka since the 2013 season, believes that the achievements of his team have been quite undervalued and wants to give value to his successes, among which appear a títitle of the Australian Open (2014), another of Roland Garros (2015) and also a US Open (2016). “Stan is one of the best players in tennis. If you see if his records, his three Grand Slam titles and winning three different Grand Slam during the Big Four era (Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray). Of course it has been a little underrated Because he has also reached the semifinals and another Grand Slam final several times. He has had an incredible career, “said Norman.

The Swedish coach also regretted that injuries have slowed Wawrinka's career. “It was a rollercoaster ride. He hasn't had the same stability as Murray, Novak, Roger or Rafa, but in his best moments I think he could beat all of them if he had a good day. That's what makes it a little bit special. You don't know what to expect from Stan and I think people like that. “That aggressive character of the Swiss on the track is what Norman stands out most of his ward.” Stan is a gambler. Play with small margins. He's the type of guy who would play it all red, win or lose. That is his personality and it is difficult for him to change it, but it is also the reason why he has won three Grand Slam. He can rise to the occasion and risk with shots that others would insure. That makes him more dangerous. If he can play a good game and display his best tennis, the opponents will take a lot of effort to beat him. Is very good”.

Norman also acknowledges that Wawrinka himself has repeatedly confessed to him that his advice has helped him gain confidence on important dates. “He says that I have made him a winner, but everyone has been able to see that he used to play great tennis before. He told me that the words he used to say before games calmed him down a bit and made him believe that he could win in great moments . The most important thing is passion, if you have it, that will make you better. Many coaches and parents talk about talent, but true talent is forged on a daily basis, even when you lose multiple games but don't lose motivation. When you lose you work harder. That's the real talent. “