Tennis

Dominic Thiem Retires from Tennis After Illustrious CareerDominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion and former world number three, bid farewell to professional tennis on Tuesday at the Erste Bank Open in Vienna. The Austrian's final match ended in a 7-6 (6), 6-2 defeat to Luciano Darderi, but the occasion was marked by a heartfelt celebration of his remarkable career.Thiem's journey to the top of the tennis world began at a young age. Born in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, he showed exceptional talent from an early age. He turned professional in 2011 and quickly rose through the ranks, reaching the semifinals of the French Open in 2016 and 2017.In 2018, Thiem made his breakthrough by winning the Indian Wells Masters. He followed that up with a runner-up finish at the French Open, losing to Rafael Nadal in a thrilling five-set final. Thiem's consistency and resilience earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.The pinnacle of Thiem's career came in 2020 when he triumphed at the US Open. In a tournament played without fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Thiem defeated Alexander Zverev in five sets to claim his first Grand Slam title. The victory cemented his status as one of the best players in the world.However, injuries began to take their toll on Thiem in recent years. He struggled to maintain his peak form and slipped down the rankings. Despite his setbacks, Thiem remained determined to return to the top. He underwent surgery on his wrist in 2022 and worked tirelessly to regain his fitness.Thiem's retirement marks the end of an era in Austrian tennis. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in his country's history. His achievements on the court and his unwavering spirit have inspired countless young athletes.

Dominic Thiem's retirement marks the end of an era in tennis. The Austrian star, known for his powerful one-handed backhand and relentless work ethic, leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.Thiem's career highlights include a Grand Slam title at the 2020 US Open, 17 tour-level singles titles, and a career-high world ranking of No. 3. He also had impressive performances against the Big Three, winning 16 of 35 matches against Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer.Thiem's signature shot was his one-handed backhand, a rare exception in an era dominated by two-handed backhands. His backhand was fueled by a full rotation of hips and shoulders, and he believed in it so strongly that he never backed off it.His forehand was arguably even more lethal, with Thiem saying, "My strokes are safer when I hit full power." The combination of his backhand and forehand made him a joy to watch, blending artistry, power, and focus.Thiem's greatest triumph came at the 2020 US Open, held during the height of the pandemic with no spectators in attendance. He rallied from two sets to love down against Alexander Zverev to win in five sets, becoming the first man since 1949 to come back from that deficit in a US Open final.Thiem's work ethic was relentless, and he was known for his dedication to practice. He was born into tennis, with his parents being tennis instructors, and he began working with renowned coach Gunter Bresnik at the age of nine.Bresnik encouraged Thiem to drop his two-handed backhand for a one-hander, and Thiem's devotion to practice was evident in his relentless pursuit of perfection. He was known for running into forests with logs on his back and swimming in chilly winter rivers, although he denied these rumors.Thiem's competitive appetite was insatiable, and he played over 25 events annually for three years, a workload of 223 matches. However, this devotion may have taken its toll, as he suffered a wrist injury in 2021 that ended his year and dropped him out of the Top 100 in 2022.Despite his physical struggles, Thiem's legacy will be remembered for his breathtaking tennis, his unwavering commitment, and his infectious desire to win. He was a man who carried himself with tremendous intention, and his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.

Matteo Berrettini, the former Wimbledon finalist, has rediscovered his passion for tennis after a challenging year marked by illness and injury. The Italian star, who began his 2023 season in March, endured a two-month setback due to an illness that threatened to derail his progress. However, Berrettini persevered through the emotional turmoil and has emerged with a renewed sense of joy and purpose."I found the energy again. I found the joy of doing what I like to do, what I'm doing right now," Berrettini told TENNIS.com. "That's the most important thing, finding the joy about what you're doing."Berrettini's resilience is particularly poignant in light of the recent retirement of Dominic Thiem, a fellow member of his generation who has struggled with injuries and a loss of motivation. Berrettini expressed his admiration for Thiem's decision to step away from the sport at the age of 31."I respect a lot about his decision because he felt like he's not in the place that he wanted to be," said Berrettini. "He steps away with my respect, and I think, the respect from the rest of the players."Despite falling outside the Top 150 earlier this year, Berrettini has climbed back into the Top 40 and has won three clay-court titles in 2023. While he acknowledges that his strengths lie in his play on grass, where he has won four titles, Berrettini is proud of his journey and the progress he has made."I think 18-year-old me would be really proud of the journey that we've been through," said Berrettini. "I got my first ATP point at 19, my first ATP win at 22. I was kind of late but my journey was really nice. A lot of good things happened along the way."Berrettini is currently competing in the Vienna Open, where he is making his third appearance. He reached the semifinals in his debut five years ago, where he was defeated by Thiem.

Dominic Thiem, the beloved Austrian tennis star, is bidding farewell to his illustrious career at the Vienna Open this week. As he prepares for his final tournament, let's delve into the remarkable achievements that have defined his journey:Thiem's crowning glory came at the 2020 US Open, where he etched his name in history as the first man born in the 1990s to win a Grand Slam title. His triumph was particularly remarkable as he rallied from two sets down and faced match point in the fifth set before ultimately prevailing over Alexander Zverev.Beyond his Grand Slam victory, Thiem has amassed an impressive 17 career titles, including a Masters 1000 at Indian Wells and five ATP 500s. He has also reached 12 other career finals, including three more Grand Slam finals at Roland Garros and the Australian Open.Thiem's exceptional talent is evident in his 32 career wins over Top 10 players, including 20 victories over Top 5 opponents and five triumphs over world No. 1s. He is one of only two players, alongside Andy Murray, to have defeated each member of the "Big 3" (Federer, Nadal, Djokovic) at least five times.His career earnings exceed $30 million, placing him among the elite in ATP history. Thiem's success has not only brought him financial rewards but has also made him a national icon in Austria, where he is the second-highest-ranked player in history after Thomas Muster.Unfortunately, Thiem's career was derailed by a wrist injury in 2021, which sidelined him for nine months. Despite his return to the tour in 2022, he has not been able to regain his previous heights.As Thiem prepares to take his final bow in Vienna, his legacy as one of the most accomplished and beloved tennis players of his generation will endure. His fighting spirit, exceptional talent, and unwavering determination have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Gael Monfils, the flamboyant Frenchman, has been a fan favorite for two decades on the ATP Tour. His unique playing style and infectious enthusiasm have made him a crowd-pleaser. This weekend, he graces the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) in Frankfurt, Germany, a revolutionary league featuring 40-minute matches, live coaching, and mid-match interviews.Monfils relishes the UTS format, which aligns with his personality. "It's a balance between show, competition, and experience," he says. "I love the creativity and freedom it allows."UTS Frankfurt boasts a star-studded lineup, including Ben Shelton, Jan-Lennard Struff, Denis Shapovalov, and Dominic Thiem, who is making his final professional appearance in Germany before retiring. Monfils holds Thiem in high regard, praising his versatility and Grand Slam triumph at the 2020 US Open."We're going to miss him," Monfils says. "He brings a different energy."Monfils' retirement is not on the horizon yet, but he acknowledges the recent departures of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. "I feel lucky to still be playing," he says. "I've been blessed with fewer injuries."Off the court, Monfils is a devoted husband to Elina Svitolina and a doting father to their two-year-old daughter, Skai. Fatherhood has transformed his perspective. "She's my priority number one," he says. "It's changed my view and made me less selfish."Monfils plans to play a few exhibitions after UTS before spending the off-season with his family. Next season will be pivotal for him, but he's not thinking about retirement just yet. "I'm ready to play it and see what life gives me," he says.

Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, has announced his retirement from tennis due to a persistent wrist injury. As he prepares to hang up his racquet, the Austrian received heartfelt tributes from the legendary Big Three of tennis: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.At the Lotterien Sporthilfe Gala 2024, Thiem was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Djokovic expressed his admiration for Thiem's career and wished him a memorable farewell tournament in Vienna. "I'm glad that you will have an opportunity to say goodbye in Vienna, one last dance," said Djokovic.Nadal also congratulated Thiem, acknowledging his respect and admiration for the Austrian. "Very well deserved. Very happy for you. You know how much I admire and respect you," Nadal said.Federer, in his message, reflected on their rivalry and friendship. "I enjoyed playing against you so much. Tennis will miss you very, very much," said Federer. "Your friendship was always important to me on the tour. As rivals, the fact that we got along so well was always great for me."Thiem responded to the tributes on social media, expressing his gratitude and admiration for the Big Three. "I really wouldn't have expected (the) three of you yesterday!" he exclaimed. "You guys are just incredible and I will never forget this moment!"Throughout his career, Thiem has achieved notable victories against Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal, showcasing his exceptional talent and competitive spirit. He has amassed 348 tour-level wins and reached the semifinals or better at all four Grand Slams.Thiem's retirement marks the end of an era in tennis, as he joins the ranks of other legendary players who have bid farewell to the sport. His contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come, and his legacy as a fierce competitor and respected sportsman will continue to inspire future generations.

Dominic Thiem's illustrious tennis career came to an end on the same court where he achieved his greatest triumph four years ago. The 30-year-old Austrian bowed out in straight sets to rising American star Ben Shelton in the first round of the US Open, marking the final Grand Slam match of his distinguished career.Thiem's departure from the sport leaves a void in the tennis landscape. He was one of the few players to challenge the dominance of the "Big Three" of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, reaching three other major finals and compiling an impressive 16-19 record against them.Thiem's success was built on a relentless work ethic and a punishing forehand. However, a wrist injury in 2021 derailed his momentum, and he has struggled to regain his former form. Despite the setback, Thiem expressed gratitude for his accomplishments."I'm really happy with the career I had before," he said. "I never expected that it's gonna be that successful, so I don't really have any regrets, and I'm good with that."Thiem's retirement marks the end of an era in tennis. He was a fierce competitor and a fan favorite, known for his unwavering determination and infectious enthusiasm. While he may no longer be on the court, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.

US Open 2024: Shelton, Zheng, Rune, and Nakashima Set for Opening Day ClashesThe 2024 US Open kicks off with a captivating slate of first-round matches, featuring intriguing matchups between rising stars and seasoned veterans.Ben Shelton vs. Dominic ThiemLast year's second-round encounter between Shelton and Thiem was marred by the Austrian's health issues. Now, they face off again, with Thiem's career in its twilight. The American, buoyed by a strong summer, will be the favorite in front of the home crowd.Zheng Qinwen vs. Amanda AnisimovaTwo young powerhouses, Zheng and Anisimova, will clash in a battle of Olympic gold and WTA 1000 finalist. Both players possess exceptional power and will look to dictate the rallies. Zheng's higher ranking and recent form give her a slight edge.Holger Rune vs. Brandon NakashimaDespite being two years younger, Rune has achieved more than Nakashima. However, the American has won both their previous encounters, including a dominant victory last fall. Nakashima's calmness and pro-American crowd support could prove decisive in this highly anticipated clash.Other Notable Matches* Coco Gauff vs. Elena-Gabriela Ruse: The American teenager faces a tough test against the Romanian qualifier.* Rafael Nadal vs. Rinky Hijikata: The 22-time Grand Slam champion begins his title defense against the Australian wildcard.* Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini: The world No. 1 opens her campaign against the Italian qualifier.

Four Former US Open Champions Receive Wild Cards for Flushing MeadowsThe upcoming US Open will witness the return of four former champions, who have been awarded wild cards into the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. Dominic Thiem, Naomi Osaka, Stan Wawrinka, and Bianca Andreescu will join the star-studded field at Flushing Meadows, bringing with them a wealth of experience and past success.Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, will make his final Grand Slam appearance at his beloved Flushing Meadows. The 30-year-old Austrian announced his retirement in May, citing persistent injuries. His triumph in 2020 was a remarkable feat, as he rallied from two sets down to defeat Alexander Zverev in a thrilling final played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Osaka, another former US Open champion, will be eager to rediscover her winning form in New York. The four-time major winner has struggled for consistency in recent times but recently returned to the Top 100. She will be hoping to improve upon her disappointing performances at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon this year.Wawrinka, the 2016 US Open champion, is a veteran of the sport at 39 years old. The Swiss star has won three Grand Slam titles in his illustrious career, including his victory over Novak Djokovic at Flushing Meadows eight years ago. Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, became Canada's first major singles champion with her magical run in New York. She will be looking to recapture that form and challenge for the title once again.In addition to the former champions, several other players have earned wild cards into the US Open. Amanda Anisimova, who won the US Open Wild Card Challenge, will be hoping to build on her impressive runner-up finish in Toronto last week. American players McCartney Kessler, Alexa Noel, Iva Jovic, Chris Eubanks, Learner Tien, Zachary Svajda, and Matthew Forbes have also secured spots.France's Alexandre Muller and Chloe Paquet, along with Australia's Tristan Schoolkate and Taylah Preston, complete the list of wild card recipients. These players were selected as part of reciprocal agreements between the USTA, the FFT, and Tennis Australia.The US Open will take place from August 29th to September 11th at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. With a star-studded field and the return of former champions, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling tennis and unforgettable moments.