Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem is adjusting his training approach to prevent recurring wrist injuries as he seeks to regain his form and climb back up the world rankings after a challenging period.
The 30-year-old, once ranked as high as number three globally, has faced difficulties returning to top shape following a wrist injury in 2021, which forced him out of competition for an extended period and caused his ranking to decline.
On Monday, Thiem secured his first ATP Tour victory of 2024 by defeating German player Maximilian Marterer 6-1, 6-7(3), 6-4 in the opening round of the Estoril Open.
Speaking after his win, Thiem emphasized his focus on listening to his body and taking precautions to avoid wrist problems. He mentioned reducing the intensity of his training while expressing confidence in managing with a slightly lighter workload, drawing on his ample experience.
Looking ahead to his next match against veteran French player Richard Gasquet, Thiem noted that he did not experience any wrist pain during his recent victory. He acknowledged the importance of a day-to-day assessment of his condition and highlighted the support of his physiotherapist in managing any potential issues.
Thiem’s cautious approach reflects his determination to prioritize his long-term health while striving for success on the tennis court.