Dominic Thiem was among the high-profile figures in attendance for the French Open final, where Alexander Zverev beat Flavio Cobolli.
But Thiem can arguably empathize with Zverev more than most, having also lost his first three Grand Slam finals before finally getting over the line.
The Austrian icon, who has retired from tennis, lost in the final of the French Open twice and the Australian Open once before winning the US Open.
Ironically, that success in 2020 arrived against Zverev, who has just claimed his maiden Grand Slam title at the fourth time of asking.
And the German has now received a message from his former ATP rival Thiem, who attended Philippe Chatrier for the epic encounter.
Prove me wrong – Alexander Zverev will win multiple Grand Slam titles now
He's finally got his first!
Dominic Thiem messages French Open champion Alexander Zverev
Sharing images of his time in the French capital, Thiem posted on his Instagram: “Another quick stop in Paris.
“Fantastic tennis and an incredible [Roland Garros] final.
“Huge congratulations to [Alexander Zverev] on a well-deserved first Grand Slam title.
“What a journey and what an achievement.”
“And of course, congrats to [Flavio Cobolli] on an amazing run and a fantastic match.
“Excited to see what’s next for both of you!”
Which player disappointed you the most at the French Open?
There are plenty to choose from…
Dominic Thiem’s record in Grand Slam finals
It’s a lovely touch from Thiem, who lost back-to-back French Open finals to Rafael Nadal in 2018 and 2019.
He suffered further heartache the following year to Novak Djokovic, losing their Australian Open final in 2020.
But Thiem finally ended his nightmare run against Zverev later that year, claiming his one and only major title in remarkable circumstances.
Miraculously recovering from two sets down in New York, he won their epic battle 2–6, 4–6, 6–4, 6–3, 7–6(8–6).
| Result | Year | Tournament | Opponent | Score |
| Loss | 2018 | French Open | Rafael Nadal | 4–6, 3–6, 2–6 |
| Loss | 2019 | French Open | Rafael Nadal | 3–6, 7–5, 1–6, 1–6 |
| Loss | 2020 | Australian Open | Novak Djokovic | 4–6, 6–4, 6–2, 3–6, 4–6 |
| Win | 2020 | US Open | Alexander Zverev | 2–6, 4–6, 6–4, 6–3, 7–6(8–6) |
The talented Austrian claimed a total of 17 titles throughout his successful career, during which he climbed as high as number three in the ATP rankings.
Incidentally, he also finished his career with a fine record over Zverev, winning eight and losing four of their 12 meetings.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
