Dominic Thiem’s career unfolded during one of the most competitive eras in tennis history. He didn’t just share the court with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic—he challenged them. With five wins over Federer, six over Nadal and five over Djokovic, Thiem is one of only two players to have defeated each member of the Big Three at least five times. “I was competing with the three greatest of all time. That was intense,” he said, reflecting on the physical and mental toll of those battles.
Thiem reached three Grand Slam finals before finally capturing the 2020 US Open in a dramatic five-set comeback against Alexander Zverev. “Coming back from two sets down in a Slam final was the moment I’d dreamed of since I was a kid,” he shared. That victory marked a breakthrough not just for Thiem, but for a generation of players trying to break the dominance of the Big Three.
The emotional weight of winning and losing
Thiem’s Grand Slam journey was filled with highs and heartbreaks. He lost two French Open finals to Nadal and fell short against Djokovic in the 2020 Australian Open final. Each defeat carried its own lessons. “Losing those finals hurt, but they also taught me how much I loved the fight,” he said.
His US Open win remains a career-defining moment, not just for the title but for the resilience it required. “I was two points from losing in the fifth set. That match changed how I saw myself,” he recalled. It was a victory that symbolized his growth, his grit, and his ability to rise under pressure.
Navigating the financial realities of tennis
Beyond the spotlight, Thiem opened up about the financial challenges players face. From earning €4,000 in his first tournament to accumulating over $30 million in prize money, his journey highlights the wide economic gap in the sport. “It can cost nearly a million dollars to reach the top. That’s not something people talk about enough,” he said.
He discussed the ATP’s Baseline Initiative, which aims to guarantee a minimum salary for players, and emphasized the importance of building a brand off the court. “If you’re not in the top 100, it’s tough. You have to be smart with your team and your resources,”
he explained. Prize money isn’t just personal income—it’s shared across coaches, physios, and travel expenses.The future of tennis and its next generation
Thiem expressed optimism about the rise of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, calling them essential for the sport’s evolution. “They bring energy, charisma, and a new style of play. That’s what tennis needs now,” he said. He also stressed the importance of academies and investment in youth development to make the sport more accessible.
When asked about potential changes to the game, Thiem didn’t shy away. “I’d love to see shorter matches in some formats and more interaction with fans. Tennis has to adapt to how people consume sport today,” he suggested. He also addressed the possibility of a LIV-style disruption, noting that innovation must be balanced with tradition.
A new chapter beyond retirement
Forced into retirement at 31 due to injury, Thiem views this moment not as an ending but a beginning. “This is a new chapter, not a farewell,” he said. His experience, shaped by battles with legends and a deep understanding of the sport’s demands, now informs his life off the court.
Whether mentoring young players, exploring new ventures, or simply enjoying the game from a different perspective, Thiem remains grounded and reflective. “I consider myself lucky to have lived that timeline. Now I want to use what I’ve learned in a meaningful way,” he concluded. His story is one of perseverance, humility, and a love for tennis that continues beyond the baseline.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Now the world no.4, Djokovic played his last match on the 5th of September when he was defeated by world no.1 Carlos Alcaraz 6-4 7-6(4) 6-2 in the semifinal of the U.S. Open (draw).
Presently, during this year the Serbian has managed to achieve a composed 31-10 win-loss record. Djokovic conquered 1 title in Geneva. The Serbian was the runner-up in Miami.