I have learnt a lot from Federer: Wawrinka

What has been the highlight this year for you — breaking into the top 10 or the Olympic gold medal in the doubles event?
The year has been satisfying for me. I broke into the top 10 in June but have slipped down to 13th position now with 302 points. I teamed up with Roger Federer for the doubles event in the Olympics and defeated the favourites American Bryan twins, Mike and Bob, 7-6(6), 6-4 in the semi-finals. We then went ahead and defeated Simon Aspelin and Thomas Johansson of Sweden in the finals, 6-3, 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-3. The Olympic gold medal was the defining moment and an important achievement for me.

How much of an influence has Roger Federer been to you? Have you ever felt being overshadowed?
It’s a great achievement to play with Roger, who is a living legend. I cherish every moment I play with him. I have learnt a lot from him.

Are you seriously considering a career in doubles tennis, or currently focusing only on your singles form?
Well, not exactly. Things have been good for me. I am taking things as they come.

Do you prefer playing on clay courts given that all your wins have been on clay, except the one at Olympics?
Clay always brings out the best of me. That’s why many of my victories have been achieved on clay courts.

Your backhand strokes are something people talk about…
That’s right. My backhand is the best and the most powerful shot I have.

How difficult was it for you, both physically and mentally, to recover from your tendon injury in 2006?
I suffered a three-month setback, tearing a tendon in my right knee while practising for the Swiss Davis Cup team’s tie against Spain in February. It definitely was a difficult phase of my career and I am happy it’s better now.

How far do you think is a Grand Slam title from you?
Every tournament I play is important for me. They give me points and my performance is rated on the same. I have always aimed at winning every match I play and giving my best performance. Grand Slams are no different.

Where do you see yourself at the end of the next year?
I hope to regain my position in the top 10 and try to play my best. I am looking forward to a great start at the Chennai Open. I am sure things will be good for me and I will have many victories for the year to come ahead.

Will the Chennai Open give you your second ATP title?
Well… The Chennai Open is one of the top circuits and it’s the beginning of the next season. I hope to play my best and have a victory in my name.

Is tennis a family sport of the Warwrinkas with all of your siblings also involved in the game? Was it a natural choice for you too?
My father Wolfram is German, and my mother Isabelle is Swiss. They both work on a biodynamic farm helping handicapped people. My older brother Jonathan teaches tennis while my two younger sisters Djanaee and Naella, are tennis players. We all love the game. It has come naturally to me and tennis has always been very close to my heart.