Whether through technique or toil, Stan Wawrinka has always been able to whip fans into a frenzy.

The ability to stir the emotions of a crowd never left him - even in what proved to be the final tour-level match of the 41-year-old Swiss star's glorious career.

Former world number three Wawrinka might have lost to Czech opponent Jiri Lehecka in front of passionate home support in Basel on Tuesday, but he did not wave farewell without showing the hallmarks of a stunning career that exceeded expectations.

The stylish one-handed backhand down the line. The finger pointing to the temple.…