After Wednesday’s 6-3, 6-4 victory over rising Austrian Dominic Thiem, world No. 1 Novak Djokovic had some kind words for the 21-year-old up and comer.
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"I had to be on alert from the start because he was serving already 215 kilometers per hour in the first service game," said Djokovic, according to the ATP’s web site. "He was serving big, playing big. He's definitely right up there as one of the most talented players. He's got the power. Some shots today that he was playing were incredible. Backhands down the line.
"He was going for it. I don't blame him. He's a young player, playing on center court, it's his opportunity to shine. He did well. I thought we played some really good points and a great match overall."
Thiem, currently 39 in the world, only managed to win 10 points against Djokovic’s serve, but he saved six of eight break points and produced some incredible shotmaking throughout the tilt.
See an example of Thiem’s shotmaking prowess in this highlight package from today’s match here:
Photo Source:Kevin Lee/Getty