Dominic Thiem, who retired from professional tennis in 2024 due to a recurring wrist injury, has offered his perspective on Alexander Zverev’s chances of winning a Grand Slam title.
Thiem, who won his lone major by defeating Zverev in the 2020 US Open final, believes the German star still has what it takes to break through—despite having lost three Grand Slam finals, including a five-set heartbreaker to Jannik Sinner at this year’s Australian Open.
Speaking to Tennis Magazin, Thiem expressed both confidence and empathy:
“I hope Sascha wins a Grand Slam. His career is already too good not to have one,” said the former world No. 3. “Even if he doesn’t win one, it’s still a sensational career. But if he does, he’ll likely become world No. 1 because he’s so consistent.”
Thiem also challenged the idea that winning majors has become easier since the retirement of legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
“Everyone said it would be easier without the Big Three or Big Four. But now we have Sinner and Alcaraz. If they’re healthy, you usually have to beat one or both. That’s no easier than it was five or ten years ago.”
He added that players like Taylor Fritz, when in top form, also add to the high level of competition in today’s game.
Zverev Eyes Roland Garros Glory
Despite recent struggles on hard courts, Zverev may find momentum with the clay season ahead. The world No. 2 reached the Roland Garros final last year and has named it as his best shot at a major title.
He’ll start his 2025 European clay campaign as the top seed at the Monte-Carlo Masters, where he’s set to face either Matteo Berrettini or qualifier Mariano Navone in the second round.
Thiem on Life After Retirement
Since stepping away from the ATP Tour, Thiem has only played one exhibition match. Despite the circumstances surrounding his early retirement, he says he feels no longing to return to the grind of the pro circuit.
“No, not at all,” he said when asked if he missed being in Australia for the first Slam of the year. “My brother was there coaching a junior, and I was glad I wasn’t. That’s a good sign—I didn’t regret not being there.”
Now enjoying life in Europe, Thiem said he was happy to experience a “cold December and January” rather than enduring the heat and pressure of the Australian Open.
The Austrian concluded his career with 17 ATP titles, including triumphs at the US Open, Indian Wells, and his home tournament in Vienna.
