Earlier, Dominic Thiem withdrew from Tokyo Olympics 2020 to do well at Wimbledon and US Open 2021. But unfortunately, he picked up a wrist injury in Mallorca, a tune-up event for the Championships, and still has not recovered. Now, his coach, Nicolas Massu, has provided an update on his recovery.

Notably, the Chilean coach was the singles and doubles gold medallist at the 2004 Athens Olympics. As a result, he had convinced Thiem enough to play in Tokyo for Austria. However, the poor 2021 season of the 27-year-old led him to alter his decision.

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As fate may have it, Thiem’s injury has added more to the already dreadful year. Moreover, it has also raised doubts over his US Open defense this year.

Read More: “Every Athlete Is a Colleague of Mine”: Novak Djokovic on Positive Energy at Tokyo Olympics 2020

Nicolas Massu updates on Dominic Thiem’s wrist injury

One of the most critical injuries in tennis is the injury of the wrist, hand, and shoulders. Although Thiem‘s damage is minimal, he would need to pay careful attention to his recovery.

During a conversation with Punto de Break, Massu opened up on the uncertain nature of the sport. While hoping to make a strong comeback after the French Open opening-round exit, things did not pan out as planned.

“He continues to advance with his recovery; every day, we are in contact and also with the doctors. He was unlucky; he was playing well in Mallorca, motivated, we saw him happy on the court,” Massu said. “But sometimes things happen that you don’t expect.”

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(All quotes are translated from Spanish to English via Google Translate).

Furthermore, the Chilean coach explained that it is essential to tend to the injury carefully. Thus, his return could push back months.

“Now it is time to go very calmly, respecting the deadlines. The wrist is an area that has to be perfect to return to competition, whenever it is, but do it 100% and without the risk of becoming chronic. There are still several weeks to know when exactly he [Thiem] can return,” Massu ended.

What’s next for Dominic Thiem in 2021?

Inarguably, “several weeks” puts Thiem’s participation in New York (starting Aug 31) in doubt. But the good news is that he is finally back on court and has already begun his training. The only concern is that he was practising only with his left hand instead of his injured right hand.

Hopefully, Thiem will recover in time to give the 2021 season a perfect end, that is, by qualifying for ATP Tour Finals. Most significantly, the fans will await to see whether he would step on the court in Flushing Meadows.

Do you think he will be able to defend his US Open title?

Also Read: Novak Djokovic Announces Unfortunate News Ahead of US Open 2021, Dominic Thiem and Stan Wawrinka Join Him