“Never Been in This Situation”: Dominic Thiem Raises Concerns Ahead of French Open 2020

World No.3 Dominic Thiem finally broke his Grand Slam final hoodoo as he won his first Major title at the US Open 2020 against Alexander Zverev. And now, he has set his sight on the upcoming French Open.

In the final, Thiem started off horribly to go down two sets to love. But the Austrian made a brilliant comeback and won the next three sets to win the US Open crown.

Dominic Thiem celebrates his win over Alexander Zverev in the men’s singles final match at 2020 U.S. Open Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

In his post-match press conference, Thiem was asked about his approach for his next task; the French Open, where he will participate as a two-time runner-up.

“Well, I think physically I’m going to be fine, 100%. I’m going to have enough time to recover from all the troubles I had. But the question is how I’m going to do it with the emotions mentally. Obviously, I’ve never been in this situation. I achieved a big, big goal. Well, I don’t know how I’m going to feel the next days.”

Dominic Thiem explains the effects of the US Open 2020 victory on his mindset

The Austrian also indicated that this US Open win will make it easier for him at the big stage. And by the looks of it, Thiem seems to be in a much better state mentally.

“At the same time, it’s going to be or I expect that it’s going to be easier for me now in the biggest tournaments because, of course, I had it in the back of my head that I had a great career so far, way better career than I could ever dreamt of, but until today there was still a big part, a big goal missing.

“With this goal achieved, I think and I hope that I’m going to be a little bit more relaxed and play a little bit more freely at the biggest events.”

Dominic Thiem at US Open 2020 — Dominic Thiem of Austria reacts after defeating Daniil Medvedev of Russia in the men’s singles semifinals match on day 12 of the 2020 U.S. Open Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Going into any tournament as a Grand Slam champion can change the whole picture for a player. Thiem, having won the US Open and given his prowess at the French Open, might finally be third time lucky in defeating Rafael Nadal in Paris. He has previously lost twice to the Spaniard in the final, in 2018 and 2019.

Read More: “Wish We Could Have Two Winners”: Dominic Thiem Consoles Emotional Alexander Zverev at US Open 2020