Dominic Thiem, a former US Open champion, bid a final farewell to the New York crowd as his Grand Slam career came to a close with a first-round loss to Ben Shelton. Despite the loss, Thiem expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play before a packed house, a stark contrast to the empty stadium during his 2020 victory. As he reflected on his journey and expressed his appreciation to the fans, Thiem acknowledged the significance of the moment and the closure it provided.
Thiem’s career was marred by persistent wrist injuries, impacting his performance and ultimately leading to his decision to retire at the age of 30. The Austrian player, once ranked No. 3 in the ATP rankings, struggled to regain his form after a wrist injury in 2021. The loss of strength and power in his forehand significantly hindered his ability to compete at the highest level, especially against top players like Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal.
Despite the disappointing end to his final Grand Slam appearance, Thiem graciously accepted defeat and exchanged kind words with his opponent, Ben Shelton. Shelton, known for his explosive left-handed serve, acknowledged Thiem’s accomplishments and urged the crowd to applaud the former champion. The moment was filled with humility and respect, showcasing the sportsmanship and camaraderie within the tennis community.
As Thiem prepares to retire from professional tennis, he looks ahead to the next phase of his life. With plans to play in two more events before bidding farewell in Vienna, Thiem remains committed to staying involved in the sport through his academy in Austria. While he expressed peace with his decision to retire, Thiem acknowledged the unique thrill of victory in tennis, a feeling that is unparalleled in any other aspect of life. The adrenaline rush and euphoria that come with a hard-fought win are irreplaceable, leaving a void that cannot be easily filled.
Dominic Thiem’s retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, as a former Grand Slam champion bids farewell to the sport he dedicated his life to. Despite the challenges and setbacks he faced, Thiem leaves behind a legacy of resilience, sportsmanship, and unwavering passion for the game. As he embarks on a new journey post-retirement, Thiem’s impact on the tennis world will continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness on and off the court.