Dominic Thiem of Austria celebrates winning the 2020 US Open after defeating Alexander Zverev (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Dominic Thiem hasn’t played on the ATP tour since June 2021. His last event was at Mallorca when he sustained a right wrist which put him out for the rest of the season.
The Austrian attempted to begin his 2022 season afresh in Cordoba last month but suffered a separate right finger issue involving a strained ligament. Thiem has now delayed his return further by withdrawing from the two ATP-1000 events in favour of making a return on his preferred clay surface.
In his statement on social media, Thiem says, “I had really good practice weeks. The wrist is perfectly fine, the hand is getting better and better but still I’ve decided to pull out of Indian Wells and Miami to start the clay court season. It’s still the surface I feel most comfortable so it’s a perfect time to start there.”
The 28-year old further added, “I really would have loved to play in the states. I’m really sorry for my fans. Last time I played here in Indian Wells, I won the tournament. I love to play in the states and I can’t wait to be back soon.” Thiem joins the list of Roger Federer, Ashleigh Barty, Kei Nishikori and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova among notable names who will be missing the two events.
Dominic Thiem will look to make a special return on his favorite clay courts of Paris. Roland Garros, the second Grand Slam of the year will be an ideal platform to make a strong statement. Thiem has always been comfortable on clay courts and will be one of the strong contenders at the French Open.
Thiem has played the final of the French Open twice before in 2018 and 2019 but lost on both occasions. His only Grand Slam win came in the 2020 US Open. The current World No. 51 was in hot form till he suffered the injury set back last year. Thiem would be looking to regain lost ground once he makes his return back to the court.
Before the French Open Thiem can get back in touch by playing the Monte Carlo Masters which also will be played on clay surfaces.
Meanwhile, the Roland Garros has been boosted by the likely participation of defending champion, Novak Djokovic. Djokovic was set to miss the tournament because of vaccination regulations. However, the French authorities have announced that the vaccination pass requirements will no longer be implemented from March 14 which means Djokovic can now participate in the tournament.
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