Dominic Thiem's Unexpected Departure

Four years past eminent triumph, Dominic Thiem strides onto Arthur Ashe Stadium's court, notorious site of his only significant title victory, now hosting his career's final Slam match. The arena endured, but little else did. 

Contrasting 2020, where he as second-seed staged a thrilling five-set comeback against Alexander Zverev amidst a pandemic-induced deserted stadium, Monday saw an expectant crowd witness a struggling Thiem, presently ranked No. 210 due to perpetual wrist injury, succumb to American Ben Shelton unceremoniously. 

Although the result was lopsided, Thiem offered a smile of satisfaction. Radiating gratitude, he declared his happiness to engage in his last match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, cherishing the chance to acknowledge his audience, a gesture missed during 2020's final.

His triumphant 2020 memory was revisited with a commemorative framed poster from the tournament, highlighting his US Open journey. Regardless of the downturn, Thiem was contented, considering his accomplishments greater than his youthful aspirations.

Thiem didn't commence his professional journey with an inherent belief of one day clinching a major. Remarkably, he confessed that the idea first appeared viable only upon reaching the French Open semifinals in 2016. However, by 2020's US Open, he had already graced three Slam finals, revealing an unexpected magnitude of success. He has no regrets, despite a premature exit, attributing it mostly to his unfortunate wrist injury.