Image source: Instagram/@domithiem
Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem made an early exit from this year’s tournament, losing in straight sets to American Ben Shelton. The match ended in a 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 defeat for the Austrian on Monday during the first round.
Dominic Thiem, who clinched the U.S. Open title in 2020, has faced challenges in regaining his top form due to a wrist injury. The injury has plagued him in recent years, and Thiem recently announced that this season would be his last in professional tennis.
Ben Shelton, just 21 years old, dominated the match with his powerful forehand and delivered eight aces on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Shelton is looking to replicate the magic of his incredible run to the semi-finals just a year ago.
Despite his struggles, Dominic Thiem fought hard, especially in the first set. He managed to save two break points in the 10th game, but Shelton’s relentless pressure eventually forced Thiem into an error, giving the American the first set.
In the second set, Dominic Thiem had one chance to break Shelton’s serve, but it slipped away. A double fault and an unforced error in the second game handed Shelton another break, and the American didn’t look back, taking the set convincingly.
Shelton continued his strong performance in the third set, breaking Thiem once more and closing out the match with 34 winners. After the match, Shelton expressed his excitement, saying, “Not much better atmosphere than being here at Ashe. I’m glad I had the opportunity to open it up here.”
Dominic Thiem, who won his U.S. Open title in front of empty stands during the COVID-19 pandemic, stayed on the court for a long time after the match, signing autographs and engaging with fans.
Reflecting on his last U.S. Open match, Thiem said, “I am super happy I got the chance to play my last U.S. Open match on this court. I can now spend some time with you guys to say thank you to all of you and to make up for the time we missed four years ago.”
As Shelton moves forward to face Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut, Thiem’s farewell marks the end of an era, closing a significant chapter in his career.
