What Dominic Thiem did right after Alexander Zverev won the BMW Open is now being described as ‘weird’ and ‘strange’

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Alexander Zverev stole the headlines at the BMW Open with his final win over Ben Shelton, but there was also an appearance from Dominic Thiem.

Zverev has tipped Shelton for a bright future after their final in Munich, in which the German beat the American 6-2, 6-4.

He now has 24 career ATP Tour titles to his name, with Shelton denied a third of his career after a promising week.

Both players have, however, experienced ranking rises, with Zverev climbing one spot into second, ahead of Carlos Alcaraz.

Shelton meanwhile has risen two spots to 13th, with the duo now quickly turning their focus to the Madrid Open.

Dominic Thiem handing Alexander Zverev his new car at the BMW Open labelled ‘weird’

But former professional Steve Johnson has taken exception to the trophy ceremony in Munich, where legendary figure Thiem drove out a new car for Zverev after his success.

Sharing his verdict on the Nothing Major Show, Johnson said: “Did you guys find it strange? Is it me or is it weird that Dominic Thiem is driving out the car?

READ MORE: Dominic Thiem responds when asked if he thinks Alexander Zverev can win a Grand Slam title

“He is barely removed from tennis and he is already like a ceremonial, trophy guy. I feel bad. His career should still be with the Sascha’s and stuff.

“I would think it would hurt for him to drive those cars out when he should still potentially, if his body held up, would still be winning them.

“I have no issue with it, I am just bummed for him. I am glad he is still involved in tennis but I just feel bad. He should still be winning that tournament rather than driving a car out.”

What ATP Tour titles did Austrian legend Dominic Thiem win?

Thiem enjoyed a stellar career on the court, which involved beating Zverev in the final of the 2020 US Open.

It represents one of 17 ATP titles for the 31-year-old, who was unfortunately forced to call time on his career last year.

READ MORE: Dominic Thiem names the two ATP youngsters he thinks are ‘amazing’ and can reach the very top of the game

The clay-court specialist would undoubtedly still be playing at the highest level if not for a wrist injury, which meant an early retirement for Thiem.

He reached number three in the world rankings once upon a time, as well as losing three Grand Slam finals.

Thiem praised Zverev after his victory at the BMW Open, which represents a record-equalling third Munich title.

It arrived on his 28th birthday, and could mark the start of a resurgence after he went 6-6 on the ATP Tour after losing the Australian Open final to Jannik Sinner.