Dominic Thiem receives emotional tributes ahead of retirement
Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem is set to retire at the end of the 2024 season, and the tennis world is already celebrating his impressive career.
Thiem, 30, decided to step away from the sport due to a long-standing wrist injury. After turning professional in 2011, he achieved great success, winning 17 titles, including the 2020 US Open. However, in May 2024, Thiem announced his decision to retire through an emotional message on social media.
As he prepares for his final matches, Dominic Thiem has been honoured with several awards, including the Lotterien Sporthilfe Gala 2024’s Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Austrian football captain David Alaba. But what made this moment even more special was the surprise tributes from tennis legends Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
In a pre-recorded video, Nadal expressed his admiration for Thiem. “Hey Domi, congratulations on this lifetime achievement award. You deserve it, and I’m very happy for you. I admire and respect you so much. Enjoy the night and see you around,” said the Spanish star.
Djokovic also sent his best wishes, saying he was happy to hear that Thiem would play his final tournament at the Vienna Open in October. “I wish you a great tournament with your family and friends. You deserve it, my friend. All the best,” Djokovic said.
Federer, speaking in German, also congratulated Thiem and shared how much tennis would miss him. The heartfelt messages from the “Big Three” of tennis highlighted the respect Thiem has earned throughout his career.
Thiem has had a remarkable journey in tennis, and while he is ready to retire, he admitted he would miss the thrill of winning big matches. After playing his final Grand Slam at the 2024 US Open, he reflected on what he will miss most. “The feeling after winning a great match is something special. You don’t really get that in life outside of tennis,” Thiem shared.
Although his career is coming to an end, Thiem’s resilience and dedication have left a lasting legacy. With tributes from some of the greatest players in tennis, it’s clear that Dominic Thiem will always be remembered as one of the sport’s respected champions.
