At 38, Swiss tennis star, Stanislas Wawrinka is in the twilight of his career. He has served the sport for over a decade now, playing consistently at the top level. However, injuries have taken a toll on his career of late. Despite this, the 3-time Grand Slam champion is still trying to have one last laugh before he retires. The Indian Wells Masters 2024 presents a wonderful opportunity for him to do so.

Wawrinka will begin his campaign later today against Tomas Machac. It promises to be an exciting contest between youth and experience. Let’s find out who has the upper hand in this matchup.

Stanislas Wawrinka vs Tomas Machac: Preview

The 2024 season hasn’t gone according to Stan Wawrinka’s plans. With retirement looming, he was hoping to have a good start to the year in what could be his final season on the tour. However, in the four matches that he has played this season, Wawrinka has managed to win just a solitary one. Additionally, he suffered a first-round defeat at the Australian Open.

On the contrary, Machac has had contrasting fortunes. He has played both singles as well as doubles and even won a doubles title in France alongside Zhang Zhizhen. On the singles front, he reached the third round of the Australian Open, apart from a consistent run across other tournaments.

Wawrinka vs Machac: Head-to-Head

The two have faced off against each other once before last year. Machac managed to upset Wawrinka in straight sets at the 2023 Stockholm Open in the Swedish capital. In the second round encounter between them there, Machac got the better of Wawrinka 6-4, 6-1. Considering his form and past results, Machac will go into the encounter at Indian Wells as a favorite against Wawrinka.

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Prediction: Machac to win in straight sets

Although it is difficult to rule out Wawrinka’s chances, it would be difficult for the Swiss star against Machac, who is riding high on confidence, given his recent results. As a result, Machac is expected to win the encounter in straight sets. Nonetheless, it would be a treat for the fans to watch Wawrinka play and give his best. Their match will take place later today on the center court.