Austria’s Dominic Thiem has proved in 2020 that he’s a great contender to be amongst tomorrow’s greats. Because of his maiden Grand Slam title in US Open and on strength of him being a finalist at the Australian Open, he’s World No. 3. To put things in a bigger perspective, his father Wolfgang Thiem called him a “finished package”.
The 27-year-old, while showing his skill on the court, also showed his strong character off the court throughout the season. He even joined Andy Murray in having won at least five matches against each member of the Big Three. This has led many to believe that the Austrian will end the domination of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
Read More: Tennis Legend Confident Dominic Thiem Can Challenge ‘Big Three’ Monopoly
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Dominic Thiem achieved a successful 25-9 season
For some, simply playing in a Grand Slam tournament is a victory by itself, let alone making it to the finals or actually winning the tournament. From 2018 till the beginning of 2020, Thiem failed three times in the finals of a major tournament. The losses came before none other than Nadal in 2018 and 2019 at the French Open, and Djokovic at the 2020 Australian Open. However, he finally steered past them in the Flushing Meadows in New York.
Looking back at his 2020 season, apart from his major tournament achievements, Thiem also made into the finals in London. There, he lost to the Russian Daniil Medvedev who is very close to him at World No. 4.
Read More: Could Dominic Thiem, Daniil Medvedev, and Others Bring ‘Big Three Dominance’ Curtains Down in 2021?
Wolfgang Thiem said, “He could have won or lost all three, it’s so close together.” In case the Austrian had lost all three, he would still have kept going on until the title came his way. His game sense and his talent have made him into a complete player.
(Quotes have been translated)
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The Austrian has big plans for 2021
When a player wins a Grand Slam title, a level of confidence boosts his potential afterwards. This is also the case of the Austrian as he plans to participate in the Tokyo Olympics for his country. He will also take part alongside the Swiss maestro at the 2021 Rod Laver Cup. Given his age and peak of form, Thiem will be the most anticipated player next year.
Wolfgang Thiem, who is himself a tennis coach, believes that Thiem Jr. is now on his own. He said, “He is now 27. Now you have to make sure that you cherish and look after the package.” Currently rejuvenating at home, Dominic will strike again in the upcoming 2021 Australian Open.
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Also Read: Former Wimbledon Quarterfinalist Details Why Dominic Thiem is the Best Player Of 2020