Roger Federer first to wish Stanislas Wawrinka after Australian Open win
New Australian Open champion Stanislas Wawrinka says he was overwhelmed when Roger Federer wished him on Sunday. Being No.2 behind Roger is no problem, said Wawrinka.
Seventeen-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer was the first to congratulate compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka on phone after his Australian Open victory, according to media reports. Wawrinka recently dethroned Federer as the new Swiss No. 1 after he reached the final at this year's Australian Open but said that he would always remain behind his mentor.
"He texted me and then called me. He was quite crazy for me, like really, really happy," Wawrinka revealed. "He's my supporter, he's always there. I just said when I have time I would call him back. It's still all quite crazy,'' the new Swiss No. 1 added. (Read more about the new Australian Open champion)
"It has never been my goal to be (Swiss) No. 1. Being No. 2 behind Roger (Federer) is no problem because he's the best player ever. I'll always feel that I'm No.2," Wawrinka said.
Wawrinka climbed five spots to number three - behind Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - in the latest ATP rankings after winning his first Grand Slam title. He beat Nadal 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in an exciting match at the Rod Laver Arena in Sunday's men's singles final. Federer has further slipped to No. 8, while David Ferrer and Andy Murray dropped to fifth and sixth spots, respectively. (Catch highlights of the Australian Open final)