Dominic Thiem's Grand Slam career came to an end in the US Open first round as the former New York champion lost to Ben Shelton on Monday. The 30-year-old is retiring after his home tournament in Vienna in October and was given the red-carpet treatment at Flushing Meadows, the venue of his one grand slam win in 2020.
Thiem was handed a wild card and the honour of opening Arthur Ashe on the first day of the tournament but succumbed to a 6-4 6-2 6-2 loss to American 13th seed Ben Shelton. The Austrian, who has been besieged by injuries in recent years, said he is “happy” about his retirement and is looking forward to life after tennis.
Thiem's Farewell
“I was struggling enough in the last years, especially since I was not able to come back to my level,” he said. “But once I took the decision this year in March, from this moment on I was happy about it. Obviously I was also able to kind of prepare already for this new chapter that is coming soon. I always loved playing on tour, and I was very patient about it, but honestly, I also always really enjoyed being home and to have, as much as it was possible, a normal life at home. And that’s why I really look forward to this one now, that the normal life is now coming. That’s why I think it’s not that difficult for me, and that’s why I’m really also happy with my decision.”
The 2020 US Open was a special moment for Thiem, as he became the first man to win the tournament after losing the first two sets since 1949. However, the victory came under unique circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the tournament to be played without fans. As Thiem stepped onto the court on Monday, he was greeted by a packed crowd that he never experienced during his historic win. He took the opportunity to thank the fans for their support and make up for what he missed four years ago.
Thiem's Legacy
Thiem's career has been marked by both triumph and adversity. He reached the top three in the world rankings and won 18 ATP titles. He has also been a consistent performer in Grand Slams, reaching four finals and winning one. His biggest win came at the 2020 US Open, where he defeated Alexander Zverev in a thrilling five-set match. However, injuries have plagued him in recent years, limiting his ability to compete at the highest level. Despite these challenges, Thiem has left an enduring legacy on the sport. He was known for his powerful forehand and relentless fighting spirit. He also made a significant contribution to Austrian tennis.
The Future
Thiem is planning to retire after his home tournament in Vienna in October. He will be remembered as one of the greatest Austrian tennis players of all time. He has already announced plans to stay involved in the sport through his academy in Austria. While he is looking forward to the next chapter in his life, he will undoubtedly miss the thrill of competing on the biggest stages. Thiem's retirement marks the end of an era for tennis. He was one of the last players of his generation to still be active on the tour. His departure will be felt by fans around the world.
The Next Generation
The US Open is the perfect place for the next generation of players to make their mark. The young guns of the sport have a lot to live up to, but they are showing signs of being ready to take over the mantle from the veterans. Shelton, who defeated Thiem in the first round, is one such player. He was impressive in his victory over Thiem and is a rising star in the sport. He has already achieved some notable results in his young career, and he will be looking to make a deeper run in the US Open this year. The future of men's tennis is bright, and the next few years will be exciting as the next generation of players battle for supremacy.
A New Chapter
Thiem's final match was a poignant reminder of the transient nature of sporting careers. Athletes come and go, but their legacies live on. Thiem's impact on tennis will be felt for years to come. He has inspired a generation of players and fans. His determination and fighting spirit will be missed. As he steps away from the court, he can do so with his head held high, knowing that he has achieved great things in his career. The next chapter in his life will be filled with new challenges and opportunities. He is undoubtedly ready to embrace them. The fans will be there to cheer him on, just as they did on Monday in New York.
