Even as a star-studded lineup graces the courts of New York, fans are sure to reminisce over a few greats who miss out on this year’s tournament. Notably, defending champion Dominic Thiem is one of the high-profile absentees from the Flushing Meadows this year. In a newly emerged video, the Austrian expresses his admiration for fellow absentee, Serena Williams.

Due to unfortunate injuries, both Dominic Thiem and Serena Williams have skipped the 2021 US Open. Favorites in their respective categories, they broke hearts with their withdrawal announcements earlier. However, as they spend time on the sidelines, Dominic has expressed his desire to team up with the 23-time Grand Slam champion. Notably, with an overflowing love for the great, he even promised to let her serve first.

“She’s a superstar”- Dominic Thiem on Serena Williams

The Austrian giant might be away from the action, but he remains positive of a comeback. However, whenever he does, fans can hope for a linkup with 39-year-old Serena Williams. Provided, she has returned to the court as well.

Notably, he also drew comparisons of the American sensation to the legendary ‘big 3’ Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal. He said, “I would choose, I think Serena because, what Novak, Roger, and Rafa have done in the men’s game, she has done in the women’s game. Still active and definitely one of the best players to ever play tennis.”

“And also she is a superstar no, I mean more than a tennis player and it would be a great experience to share the court with her. I would let her serve first,” he added.

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What happened to the two stars?

Riddled with injuries, both Serena Williams and Dominic Thiem are yet to return to the court. Playing against Adrian Mannarino at the Mallorca Open, the 28-year-old retired mid-game, following a wrist injury. Ever since, Dominic has stayed on the sidelines, working on his return to the court. However, the World No. 6 recently announced his withdrawal from the remainder of the 2021 season, failing to recover in time for the US Open.

A once-glorious career now hangs in the balance too, with injury getting the better of 39-year-old Serena. Appearing at the 2021 Wimbledon Championship as a favorite, she was forced to retire from the tournament, following a mid-game slip that injured her right thigh. Ever since, Serena is yet to make an appearance. Notably, she recently joined Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Dominic Thiem in the injured absentee list, withdrawing from this season’s tennis.

Read more: “It’s Not Fair”: Novak Djokovic Opens Up on Heckler Fan During his R2 Victory at US Open 2021