Dominic Thiem has one big regret about his tennis career after being forced to retire at 31

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Dominic Thiem named one thing he wishes was different about the tennis tour during his career.

Following an impressive career which spanned 13 years, Thiem was forced to retire as injuries took their toll on his body.

The 31-year-old called time on his playing days after competing in front of his home fans at the Vienna Open.

The Austrian broke his wrist in 2021 and never returned to his best form, and he thinks he knows what contributed to his early retirement.

What did Dominic Thiem wish was different about his tennis career?

Before his injury nightmare began, Dominic Thiem enjoyed a successful career during which he claimed 17 titles. He achieved his dream of winning a Grand Slam and competed against the best players in the game on a regular basis.

But during a discussion with Thanasi Kokkinakis’ on UTS Tour’s YouTube channel, they brought up the intense and hectic nature of the tennis schedule, something that was criticised multiple times during the 2024 season.

Thiem, who has criticised the schedule in the past, believes it contributed to his injuries and he would have played a lighter schedule if it was possible.

“I don’t know how they fix it because it’s a lot of money lost for the tournament and tour. You were a machine,” Kokkinakis said to Thiem, before the Austrian replied: “That’s why I’m done at 31!”

Denis Shapovalov, who was also part of the chat, asked Thiem if he would play less, and the 2020 US Open added: “Yes for sure. 100%. I would play less. I remember it was like 34 tournaments or something.”

What is Dominic Thiem’s plan post-retirement?

Many wondered what Thiem plans to do after retiring from tennis, especially at such a young age.

The 2020 US Open champion has already started a new YouTube blog in which he shares his experiences from his career with fans.

The Former World number three is also a big advocate for the environment and has stressed the importance of sustainability on multiple occasions.

The Austrian previously expressed that he has no desire to become a coach, however he does plan to stay close to the sport in a different capacity.

“Yeah [going to do business] and academy as well,” he said. “I don’t think you can go fully out of tennis. It would be stupid.”