Dominic Thiem’s Historic US Open Triumph and Tragic Downfall

Three years ago, Austrian tennis ace Dominic Thiem scripted one of the most dramatic Grand Slam finales in history, winning the US Open against his good friend Alexander Zverev. This victory, which came after he overcame a two-set deficit, remained his lone Major title. His career, however, took a tragic turn soon after.

The Unforgettable US Open Final

On the sprawling Arthur Ashe Stadium court, Thiem went down to the hard surface behind the baseline, staying there for a brief moment, as Zverev’s backhand sailed into the net, sealing his victory. The usually boisterous crowd was silent, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic that had barred spectators. It was Thiem’s greatest career moment, winning his first Grand Slam title, and history was made as he became the first player to achieve such a comeback in a US Open final.

“It had to be like that,” Thiem remarked post-match. “Like my whole career, one up and down, just drama.” Little did he know that these words would foreshadow his future.

A Brief Moment in the Sun

Despite the triumph, Thiem’s reign at the top was short-lived. He reached the finals of the ATP Finals later that year, but his form began to decline in the 2021 season.

The Descent

• In June 2021, Thiem suffered a right hand injury, sidelining him for nearly nine months.
• Upon his return in March 2022, he struggled to regain his form, attributing it to the “protective posture of the wrist.”
• His final moment of hope came at the 2023 Kitzbühel event, but it proved to be an isolated incident.

Thiem’s downward spiral continued, even on the lower-tier Challenger Tour, where he lost to lesser-known opponents. His search for a new coach also proved fruitless, and in 2024, at just 30 years old, he announced his retirement.

A Tale of Unfulfilled Potential

Thiem’s career, though brief, was marked by remarkable achievements. He defeated each of the “Big Three” (Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer) at least five times, a feat only four other players have achieved. He also came close to becoming the second Austrian to top the world rankings, after Thomas Muster.

What Could Have Been

While Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner now develop a new elite, Thiem said goodbye as a particularly unfortunate representative of the generation.

FAQs

What was Dominic Thiem’s biggest achievement in tennis?

Winning the US Open in 2020.

Why did Dominic Thiem retire?

Due to a combination of physical injuries and struggles with form.

Did you know?

Only three other players have beaten each of the “Big Three” at least five times: Andy Murray, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, and Juan Martín del Potro.

Pro tip

To learn more about Dominic Thiem’s incredible journey and retirement, explore our exclusive interview with the tennis star.

See also

• The End of an Era: The Big Three’s Retirement Wave
• The New Royalty: Alcaraz and Sinner Take Center Stage

Final Score: Although Thiem’s tenure at the top was short, his unique story will forever be a part of tennis history. His US Open triumph was a moment of pure joy amidst the pandemic, but his subsequent retirement left fans eager for more from the Austrian sensation.

Article written by John Doe, 247Sports.News’ tennis correspondent.
First published on 2024-11-05.
Last updated on 2024-11-05.