With defeat to Australian teenager Benjamin Wenzel, American David Wagner bowed out of the Grand Slam spotlight after confirming the US Open would be his last.

This was a significant moment for Wenzel with victory handing him his maiden main draw match-win at a Grand Slam although, despite defeat, the plaudits belonged to Wagner following a stellar career.

The USTA honoured the 52-year-old prior to his doubles match on Tuesday, and his on-court achievements and wider contributions will be etched in the fabric of wheelchair tennis for ever more.

While he is not leaving the sport just yet – he will be representing the United States at next week’s BNP Paribas World Team Cup in Orlando – he will not be adding to his 23 Grand Slam quad doubles and six quad singles titles.

Wagner – a former world No. 1 in quad singles and doubles – also has eight Paralympic medals to his name, including golds at Athens, Beijing and London, as well as a string of other on-court accolades. However, the time is fast approaching when Wagner hangs up his racket for good.

But before going into the slightly more serious stuff, there was still time for a classic Wagner quip when asked how he intends to spend his time when he no longer competes on the UNIQLO Wheelchair Tennis Tour.

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“I'm probably going to drink a lot more beer, I'll definitely work on that,” said Wagner, who has also chalked up 22 Masters titles across singles and doubles.

“You never want it to be done, but you can’t play forever. Wheelchair Tennis has been such a huge part of my life for so long, and coming into this tournament it’s hard to put it out of your head that it will be my last Grand Slam.

“But I made the decision and I’m at peace with the decision. But there were times in what proved to be my final Grand Slam match when thoughts creep in, that if I miss this or they hit this then I’m done.

“A lot of people, including current players, have said some nice things and you appreciate them realising the hard work that I have put in. But it's not just me, there’s a ton of others before me who got it to a level. Now others can move it on from here.”

It is perhaps fitting that someone who has made an indelible contribution to wheelchair tennis has decided to retire from the sport at the end of the year in which it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

“The sport has come a long way,” added Wagner, who was left paralysed following beach accident in 1995.

“When they started the sport, I don’t think they thought it was going to be in Grand Slams and people making a true living in the sport.

"It has evolved to be very noticed and very much in the press. It also allows people to realise what's out there and what's possible.”

Wagner is a true character, and his achievements will not be forgotten. Thank you for the memories. 

A full list of results from the 2026 US Open Wheelchair Championships can be found here