That was it for Dominic Thiem’s ​​Grand Slam career after a straight-sets defeat to Ben Shelton. Thiem, only 30, will retire in October due to a persistent wrist injury.

He had a fine farewell against Arthur Ashe, the scene of his only major title, when he defeated Alexander Zverev in five sets in 2020.

Due to the COVID-19 measures, there were no fans in the stands that day. Thiem just told in an interview on the field how special it was to be able to share his farewell moment with the spectators today.

With a 16-19 record against the Big Three (including a 5-2 record against Roger Federer), Thiem was a true rarity as he could compete against Djokovic, Nadal and Federer. Moreover, he has always been one of the most popular players on the tour.

His last tournament will take place in his home country, the Vienna Open in October.