PARIS: Two-time finalist Dominic Thiem said a sad farewell to Roland Garros after the soon-to-retire Austrian was knocked out in the second round of qualifying on Wednesday.

Thiem, the 2018 and 2019 finalist, went down 6-2, 7-5 to Finland’s Otto Virtanen and was then presented with a commemorative trophy by tournament director Amelie Mauresmo.

Thiem was visibly moved as he spoke fondly of his connection with the French clay.

“Thank you for this marvellous goodbye,” the Austrian said as he received his trophy. I have had so many good results, good memories and good moments on these courts, I’ll never forget it.”

Thiem has failed to go past the first round of the main draw in Paris since his 2019 run to the final and has dropped from World No.3 to 131 in the rankings.

His career has been blighted by a wrist injury and since his crowning moment in 2020 when he beat Alexander Zverev in the Covid-affected US Open final his career has nose-dived.

Published in Dawn, May 23rd, 2024