Dominic Thiem Relishing Miami Showdown With Novak Djokovic

The prospect of playing the world No.1 in a Masters event might be a daunting prospect, however, for Dominic Thiem it is one that he is hoping to learn from.

The 22-year-old set up a fourth round clash with Djokovic after defeating Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka in straight sets at the Miami Masters. Thiem, who is currently the youngest player ranked inside the top-20, has enjoyed an impressive start start to 2016. The Austrian has already won two titles this year (Acapulco and Buenos Aires) and has defeated two top-10 players (Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer). The performance has placed the youngster on course for future stardom once the big four finally hang up their rackets.

The biggest assessment of how good Thiem’s form currently is, will occur when he plays the formidable Djokovic in the unforgiving Miami conditions. The Austrian has a realistic outlook about his chances of causing a major upset. Nevertheless, Thiem explained why his upcoming match will be important for his development as a player.

“These are the matches where you can collect a lot of experience as a young player, because against such a big name you cannot do much except try to tease him a bit”. Thiem told Austrian media in Miami.

The upcoming meeting will be the second time that Thiem has played the Serbian. Their first meeting was at the 2014 Shanghai Masters, where the youngster prevailed in straight sets. Since Shanghai, Djokovic has enjoyed a magnificent 2015 when he became the first player to earn over $20 million in prize money within one season. The Level of Djokovic is described by some as ‘superhuman’ and Thiem agrees.

“Djokovic has a different level than anybody else. Nevertheless, I hope I do not lose too easily”. The 22-year-old said about the upcoming match.

Thiem does have both the weapons and the talent to be problematic for Djokovic. From his blistering forehands to his consistent serve, it is easy to see why the Austrian is ranked in the worlds top-15. Going into this week’s Miami Masters, the 22-year-old has won 83% of his service games in 2016. The display from Thiem has even earned him praise from Djokovic.

“He’s a young player who has a lot of potential and a nice variety in his game.” Djokovic about his upcoming match with Thiem.

Regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s match at the Crandon Park Tennis Center, Thiem’s mental strength is getting stronger following his recent run on the ATP Tour. A promising sign for the rising star.

“I’m playing well at the moment and have already beaten good people. It does not matter how the match goes out, we’ll see what comes out. I can not give more than everything.” He concluded.

Comparison of Novak Djokovic’s and Dominic Thiem’s start to 2016 (up to the start of the Miami Open)