Fans undoubtedly relish the non-stop tennis action from the National Bank Open to the ongoing Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati. Both ATP and WTA stars have begun their preparations for the US Open. However, it wasn’t all rosy as defending champion Dominic Thiem announced his withdrawal from the rest of the season.

World No. 6, Dominic Thiem has been a popular face in the circuit. However, riddled by injury, the Austrian star’s been left on the sidelines of the sport and will spend the remainder of the season there. Just as fans were gearing up for the Dominic’s return to action at the US Open, he recently announced his withdrawal from the competition.

Dominic continues to prepare for his return, looking forward to coming back when he feels completely fit.

“I won’t come back until I’m fully fit”- Dominic Thiem

Undoubtedly, fans were heartbroken about the news. His title-winning campaign in the 2020 edition of the tournament had made him a favorite this time around as well. However, the Austrian reveals that he might have missed a chance, but he hasn’t lost hope and will make a return, but only when ready.

He said, “I still have many years ahead of me in my career and I won’t come back until I’m fully fit and in perfect shape for tough matches.”

Even as he backs his decision, he equally shares the disappointment with fans. Speaking of the same, he said, “After a week of training on the tennis court, I still felt pain in my wrist and knew that it had not yet healed one hundred percent. I’m very disappointed not being able to defend my US Open title and miss the rest of the season.” 

WATCH: Grigor Dimitrov Displays Class Act Amidst Loss to Daniil Medvedev at Cincinnati Open 2021

What happened to the Austrian sensation?

Dominic Thiem last played a professional game of tennis at the Mallorca Open, in June 2021. Playing against Adrian Mannarino, he fell victim to a mid-game wrist injury and pulled out of the tournament. Ever since, the road to recovery has been long and, sadly, not promising.

The 27-year-old’s optimistic approach and positive demeanor are surely inspirational. Despite spending almost half the season off-court, he remains determined to return. Whenever the former World No. 3 returns, his fans are certain to give him a roaring welcome.

Read more: “Every Time He Starts to Lose…”: Andrey Rublev and Gael Monfils Involved in a Verbal Fight at Cincinnati Open 2021