In an emotional evening filled with nostalgia and heartfelt tributes, Dominic Thiem bid farewell to his professional tennis career at the Erste Bank Open in Vienna. The event, held on October 20, 2024, saw Thiem face off against his longtime friend and rival, Alexander Zverev, in an exhibition match that brought the crowd to its feet.
The match, reminiscent of Thiem’s 2020 US Open victory over Zverev, ended with Thiem winning 6-3. While the victory held no competitive significance, it was a fitting tribute to Thiem’s illustrious career. The atmosphere in Vienna’s Stadthalle was electric, with fans giving both players a standing ovation at the end of the match.
The evening was not just about the match. A “One Shot Cup” followed, featuring friends and companions like Boris Becker, Tommy Haas, Frances Tiafoe, and Gregor Schlierenzauer. Jack Draper emerged victorious in this unique competition. The event also included a tribute to Thiem’s career, with video clips showcasing his journey from his first tournament victory in Nice in 2015 to his triumph at the Erste Bank Open in 2019.
Prominent figures in tennis, including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, sent their best wishes via video messages. Tournament Director Herwig Straka presented Thiem with a special farewell trophy, and the crowd showered him with confetti, reminiscent of his 2019 victory.
In his emotional speech, Thiem expressed his gratitude to his opponents, friends, and fans. “It’s been an incredible journey,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. “It means so much to me that you were here today. It hurts incredibly that the journey is over, but it was a wonderful time.”
Zverev, visibly moved, echoed Thiem’s sentiments. “First and foremost, I’m losing a friend on the tour,” he said. “But it’s goodbye, not goodbye. I hope he gets bored in a year or two and comes back to the tour again.”
As Thiem prepares for his final match against Luciano Darderi on October 22, 2024, the tennis world reflects on his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. While the journey may be ending, the memories and friendships forged along the way will endure forever.
The most wonderful farewell send off for not just an incredible player, but a truly incredible person ♥️#DankeDomi 👏 pic.twitter.com/9mbw0xmKhj
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 20, 2024
Alexander Zverev in 2024
LWWWLLWWWW Currently ranked no.3, the German played his last match on the 9th of October when he was overcome by world no.54 David Goffin 6-4 7-5 in the 4th round in Shanghai (draw).
During this season Alexander has achieved a 59-19 win-loss record. Zverev conquered 2 titles in 2024 in Australia and Rome. Alexander got to the final at the French Open and Hamburg.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 28th of October.
