Australian Open 2021: Dominic Thiem v Grigor Dimitrov Preview, Head-to-Head & Prediction

Grigor Dimitrov and Dominic Thiem are all set to clash in their 4th round match at Australian Open 2021. While Grigor is coming with crushing victories over his opponents, Thiem has just overcome a scare against local favorite Nick Kyrgios.

Thiem v Dimitrov: Preview

The 18th seed is inching closer to his 30s and his desperation for a title win is only getting stronger. He last met Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta and demolished him 6-0 1-0 before the Spaniard retired, citing some abdominal issues. Although Pablo is not heavy at his service, it was an aggressive Grigor that ensured the lead with precise returns.

But it will not be easy to replicate the same performance against an athletic Dominic Thiem. In the match against Kyrgios, Thiem trailed until the beginning of the third set when he started taking the game one backhand at a time.

He fought not just the 6’4” outspoken local hero, but also a roaring audience demanding Nick to destroy Thiem. 

Dominic Thiem v Grigor Dimitrov: Head-to-head

The two players have never met one another at a Grand Slam game before. It took them half a decade before finding each other for the first clash in 2016 at Acapulco Mexico quarters.

Thiem won that game in straight sets, but Dimitrov still leads the H2H with 3-2. More concerning for Thiem is that Dimitrov came out the victor in their most recent clashes (both on hard courts). 

The Australian Open 2021 will be an opportunity for the in-form third seed to make that score, even while he’s at the top of his game.

READ MORE- Grigor Dimitrov Opens up About His Chances to Win a Grand Slam

Thiem v Dimitrov: Match Prediction

It’ll be Grigor’s big serve against Thiem’s ability to pull through long rallies. Grigor Dimitrov has been a disappointment on the bigger stages throughout his career.

His fourth-round loss at the hands of Stefanos Tsitsipas at the French Open in 2020 and the forgetful second-round upset in the US Open 2020 are proof that he is unlikely to prevail under pressure.

On the other hand, Thiem is enjoying the pinnacle of his career and remains the favorite to find a place in the semis. It will be very difficult to stop Dominic Thiem who shows no signs of fatigue even if he is stretched to a five-setter. 

Prediction – Thiem def. Dimitrov in four sets.

READ MORE- “Had to Accept It”: Dominic Thiem Unfazed by Crowd in Thrilling Victory Over Local Hero Nick Kyrgios at Australian Open 2021