Nicolas Massu: 'Dominic Thiem can challenge Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Djokovic'

Dominic Thiem entered the top-10 following a notable result at Roland Garros, staying in the exclusive group ever since and becoming one of the most consistent players on the Tour. After two Roland Garros semi-finals in 2016 and 2017, Dominic would reach the final in 2018 and 2019, losing both to Rafael Nadal but gathering experience on the most notable tennis scene. Besides that, the Austrian has become the most dangerous rival of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, scoring 16 victories over the world's best players and reducing the gap to them. Nicolas Massu, Dominic's current coach, was the right person for the Austrian to unleash his full potential, leading Thiem towards the first Masters 1000 crown in Indian Wells last year. Dominic barely missed the opportunity to win the ATP Finals crown in November, starting all over this January and reaching the Australian Open final.

Leading two sets to one against Novak Djokovic, Thiem had to settle with the runner-up prize in the end, bouncing back at the US Open in September to embrace a Major glory. Trailing two sets to love versus Alexander Zverev, Thiem produced a remarkable comeback to prevail 3-2 and lift the first Major trophy at 27, joining an exclusive list of active players with one of four notable titles.

Nicolas Massu is confident about Dominic Thiem's future in this strong era.

Dominic lost an epic Roland Garros clash to Diego Schwartzman, failing to reach the semis for the first time in five years and advancing into another ATP Finals title match, losing it to Daniil Medvedev. The Austrian will finish the season inside the top-3 for the first time and Massu is confident about the upcoming season, praising his pupil and announcing more big things from him in the future. For Massu, Dominic is the most prominent rival of the 'Big 3,' feeling optimistic about Dominic's abilities and honoring his talent and devotion on the court.

"Dominic Thiem's level of consistency in the last two years is spectacular. It wasn't easy to repeat what he did in 2019, winning five titles and reaching a Major final. We had a smaller number of tournaments in 2020, and Dominic achieved more than in the previous year. He will finish the season in the top-3 for the first time, winning a Major on the surface that isn't his favorite. Dominic gives everything every day, building on his talent and row power with dedication and devotion. He has many things to improve, which is not easy when you reach the top. He is a complete player, competing well on every surface and possessing a great serve, forehand, backhand and movement. It will always be difficult to challenge Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, the best players in history. However, if anyone can reach their level, it is Dominic," Nicolas Massu said.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/34jJN0s