Dominic Thiem (right) is well set on his way to replace Roger Federer as the new World No.3 if he manages to advance into the semifinals of the ongoing 2020 Rio Open. (Getty Images)
Dominic Thiem could replace Roger Federer as World No.3 if he manages to advance into the semi-finals of the ongoing 2020 Rio Open.
Thiem ranked fourth currently, would enter the top-three for the first time in his career if he gets past Gianluca Magner.
Moreover, with current World No.3 Roger Federer deciding to stay out of action until June, Thiem could keep this place for a while. Federer confirmed he would be out of action after undergoing arthroscopic surgery.
However, a hurdle in the form of Magner awaits the Austrian who overcame Spaniard Jaume Munar in the Round of 16 clash in Brazil.
Thiem’s good run-of-form continued as the Austrian came from behind after losing the first set to defeat Spaniard Munar 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 at the Rio Open.
Thiem, who has had a small knee problem has not played at his highest level in the opening two matches of the tournament.
However, against Munar, Thiem recorded a fightback after dropping the first set to advance into the final eight. The 26-year-old, meanwhile, shared his thoughts regarding Federer’s injury with the media after his win over Munar.
“Me and everybody else love to watch him, love when he’s around in the ATP Tour. It is sad that he is out until Wimbledon, but on the other hand, if he needs the surgery if he is ready for grass season and it’s good if he is back playing in great shape.”
Only a few days ago Thiem had expressed his desire to break into the top-three and with Federer now ruled out for the foreseeable it seems like the Austrian’s wish will finally come true.
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