Winning a Grand Slam title is a dream come true for any tennis player, but for Dominic Thiem, it was a surreal experience. The Austrian’s greatest moment came in the eerie emptiness of the 2020 U.S. Open final, where he battled against Alexander Zverev for over four hours, emerging victorious in front of rows of empty seats.
In a post-Covid world, where the absence of fans created an unprecedented atmosphere, Thiem’s triumph felt both historic and bittersweet. With the absence of tennis icons like Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic in the tournament, the path to victory was clearer but no less challenging.
Thiem’s journey to that defining moment was filled with setbacks, including losses in three previous Grand Slam finals. The pressure of facing the “Big Three” and his own expectations weighed heavily on him, especially after losing the first two sets to Zverev in the U.S. Open final.
But Thiem’s resilience and unwavering determination shone through as he clawed his way back into the match, eventually winning in a final-set tiebreak. His fearless play and never-say-die attitude captured the hearts of fans and commentators alike.
Despite the triumph, Thiem’s career took an unexpected turn, marked by injuries and a lack of form. His decision to retire at the age of 31, after struggling with a wrist injury and a decline in performance, was a difficult but necessary choice.
Looking back on his career, Thiem reflected on the challenges of competing against the greatest players of all time and the toll it took on his body and mind. Despite the hardships, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to face his idols on the biggest stages in tennis.
As he prepares for his final Grand Slam tournament in New York, Thiem remains focused on giving his best and cherishing the love and support of his fans. While retirement looms on the horizon, he is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, including starting a family and exploring new endeavors outside of tennis.
For Thiem, the journey from empty stadiums to Grand Slam glory and beyond has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but one thing remains constant – his passion for the sport and the memories he has created along the way.
(Images: Getty Images; Design: Eamonn Dalton)
