Dominic Thiem had a night to remember as he moved into the final of the US Open. The world No. 3 was able to hold his nerves in a big match. In the semi-final of US Open 2020, he defeated ‘next-gen’ tennis player Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, winning 6-2, 7-6(7), 7-6(5). What was phenomenal about his performance was that he did not let the match slip at crucial moments, especially in the two tie-breakers.

Read More: Thiem derails Medvedev in straight sets to reach the final of US Open 2020.

The match went really well with both players showing a competitive and challenging spirit. In the third set, Thiem looked both uncomfortable and cramped. He had slipped seven times during the match, which definitely frustrated him. He even started complaining about it on the court itself.

Dominic Thiem could not find his grip, was struggling with his ankle.

One could see how disappointed and annoyed Thiem was in the third set; not with himself, but with his shoes. He complained about his slippery shoes and how they had made it almost impossible for him to have a strong grip.

“What kind of shoes are these?! I’ve slipped 7 times already. Incredible,” cursed Thiem, in German.

What worsened the scenario was his excruciating pain in the ankle, which was a consequence of his trouble with his shoes. Medvedev realized this soon enough and ensured he made his opponent move more and cover more distance.

But Thiem proved why he is the World No. 3 and a player who is about to play a second Grand Slam final in 2020. He fought back in the third set to wrap up the match in straight.

It is the pain that often encourages an athlete to go for more. It will be an interesting US Open 2020 final where Thiem faces Alexander Zverev.

Also read: “Need to call Murray!”-Thiem jokes after reaching US Open 2020 finals