Dominic Thiem Announces Retirement from Tennis at End of 2024 Season

Dominic Thiem Announces Retirement from Tennis at End of 2024 Season

Dominic Thiem, the former world No. 3 tennis player, has announced his retirement from the sport at the end of the 2024 season. In a heartfelt video statement, Thiem cited ongoing wrist issues and a deep inner feeling as the reasons behind his decision.

Thiem’s career has been marked by both triumph and adversity. He reached three Grand Slam finals before claiming his first major title at the 2020 US Open. However, injuries, particularly to his right wrist, have plagued him in recent years.

The Austrian first hinted at his retirement plans in March, revealing renewed wrist problems ahead of the clay court season. Rumors intensified this week with reports that he would play his final tournament in his hometown of Vienna.

Thiem’s retirement announcement has been met with sadness and admiration from the tennis community. Novak Djokovic praised Thiem’s resilience and determination in the face of injuries.

“I think he’s a great example of somebody who never gives up,” Djokovic said. “We are all hoping as tennis fans and colleagues of his that he can find the level because he was always very exciting to watch.”

Thiem’s legacy will be defined by his exceptional one-handed backhand, powerful forehand, and intense on-court presence. He has inspired countless fans with his fighting spirit and unwavering belief in his abilities.

As Thiem prepares for his final season, he will undoubtedly be celebrated for his contributions to the sport. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his impact on tennis will continue to be felt for years to come.

Two-Handed Backhanders Embrace One-Handed Challenge at Madrid Open

Two-Handed Backhanders Embrace One-Handed Challenge at Madrid Open

The one-handed backhand, once a staple of tennis, has faced a decline in recent years as two-handed backhands have become more prevalent. However, at the Mutua Madrid Open, some of the sport’s top two-handed backhanders showcased their skills with the one-handed shot.

Mirra Andreeva, Ons Jabeur, Taylor Fritz, and Jannik Sinner all attempted the one-handed backhand, with varying degrees of success. Sinner, who has often praised the one-handed backhand, admitted to not being proficient at the shot.

Fritz and Ben Shelton engaged in a friendly competition, with Fritz expressing confidence in his consistency. However, he later conceded the title of best U.S. one-hander to Sebastian Korda, whose stroke he described as “clean af.”

The collective efforts of the players were met with praise from Carla Suárez Navarro, a former top-10 player known for her iconic one-handed backhand. “Not bad,” she wrote in the comments.

Suárez Navarro’s absence from the game has been felt by fans and peers alike. “Yours was so good!” Daria Saville replied. “I miss it.”

Despite the resurgence of the one-handed backhand at the Mutua Madrid Open, it remains to be seen whether it will experience a wider revival. However, the efforts of these top players have shown that the shot still has a place in the modern game.

One-Handed Backhands Return to ATP Top 10 with Tsitsipas and Dimitrov

One-Handed Backhands Return to ATP Top 10 with Tsitsipas and Dimitrov

The ATP rankings have witnessed a resurgence of one-handed backhands in the Top 10, with Stefanos Tsitsipas and Grigor Dimitrov leading the charge. Tsitsipas’ victory at the Monte Carlo Masters propelled him back into the elite, joining Dimitrov, who had ended a six-week drought of one-handed backhands in the Top 10 after his Miami Open final appearance.

This marks the first time since October 2021 that two players with one-handed backhands have graced the Top 10. Tsitsipas, who had been the lone representative since Dominic Thiem’s departure in 2021, now finds himself at his highest ranking since January 2023.

Another notable move in the Top 10 is Casper Ruud’s ascent to No. 6, his highest ranking in over seven months. The Norwegian’s impressive run in Monte Carlo, including a victory over Novak Djokovic, has earned him a significant boost.

Ugo Humbert and Ben Shelton have also made strides, with Humbert reaching a career-high of No. 13 and Shelton becoming the new American men’s No. 1. Meanwhile, Sumit Nagal has made history as the first Indian player to win a Masters 1000 match on clay, propelling him to a career-high of No. 80.

On the WTA side, there were no major changes in the rankings due to the absence of events last week. However, 21-year-old Jessica Bouzas Maneiro made her Top 100 debut after reaching the final of an ITF Circuit event in Spain.

Dimitrov Embraces Mission to Revive One-Handed Backhand in ATP Top 10

Dimitrov Embraces Mission to Revive One-Handed Backhand in ATP Top 10

Grigor Dimitrov, the former world No. 3, is on a mission to revive the one-handed backhand in the ATP’s Top 10. With Stefanos Tsitsipas’ recent departure from the elite group, Dimitrov is the last remaining player with this visually-appealing shot.

Dimitrov acknowledges the significance of the one-handed backhand’s decline, stating, “It is a big deal.” He believes that the shot’s beauty lies in its complexity, requiring precise timing, ball-watching, and swing mechanics.

Despite the dwindling presence of one-handed backhands, Dimitrov remains optimistic. He is determined to keep the shot alive and inspire future generations. “I’m counting on every guy that’s still out there with one hand to keep on pushing and playing for that,” he said.

Dimitrov’s recent resurgence has seen him climb to No. 13 in the rankings. With just 45 points to defend in Indian Wells and Miami, he has a chance to return to the Top 10 for the first time since 2018.

However, Dimitrov’s focus is not solely on rankings. He is driven by a desire to overcome personal challenges and achieve his goals. “For me, I have a different quest, I have different battles to fight right now,” he said.

In the third round of Indian Wells, Dimitrov will face No. 21 seed Adrian Mannarino. Dimitrov has a perfect 4-0 record against the Frenchman.

Dimitrov’s determination to revive the one-handed backhand and his unwavering focus on personal growth make him an inspiring figure in the tennis world. His journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of changing trends, passion and perseverance can prevail.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart