“That’s what Pissed Me”: Dominic Thiem Raises Anti-Doping Concerns After Red Bull Controversy at US Open 2020

World No. 3 Dominic Thiem booked his place in the third round of the US Open 2020. Thiem defeated the Indian Sumit Nagal in 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. During the second-round match, Thiem got furious because of the way the US Open officials handled his request on having a Red Bull on the court.

The 2020 Australian Open runner Thiem wanted to drink the Red bull straight from the can. However, the organizers insisted to pour the drink into a plain cup because they didn’t want the label to be seen due to marketing reasons.

During the post-match conference, Thiem was asked about the incident and acknowledged that he understands that the Red Bull can is not allowed on the court. Although, the Austrian refused to get into the details and said that he will ask for a plain cup next time.

“It’s not allowed, the Red Bull can, on court, which is completely fine. I know that. Sometimes it helps me a lot on court, so I want to have it. I can also drink it in a plain cup.” said Thiem post-match after his victory over Nagal.

Thiem was questioned about his “anti-doping” remarks during his small argument with officials and was asked whether he was worried about possible tampering. Dominic said that he got irritated when they filled the can into a plain cup without him being present.

“No, they wanted to go out with the open can and fill it in a plain cup without me observing it. That’s what pissed me because the anti-doping rules are so strict. I don’t want to lose the can out of my sight,” added Thiem when asked about the altercation.

Dominic Thiem faces Cilic in next round

The US Open 2014 champion, Marin Cilic, won his second-round match after hard-fought four sets against Norbert Gombos. Cilic came from two sets down in his opening round match against Denis Kudla to win it in five sets.

The Croatian faces Dominic Thiem in the third round at Flushing Meadows. The duo has played twice against each other, with Thiem winning both the battles.