"I'm playing much better than in the second half of 2022": Thiem remains optimistic after first win of 2023 season

After his opening victory at the ATP-250 tournament in Estoril Dominic Thiem looked optimistically towards the future because the past was rather bleak.

About two months after his first win in 2023, Dominic Thiem celebrated his second victory this year on Tuesday against fellow countryman Sebastian Ofner. The 29-year-old prevailed in a tough match, winning 3-6, 6-3, and 6-4 in the opening round of the ATP-250 tournament in Estoril.

Speaking to Sky, Thiem said:

"It wasn't easy. We trained together for a long time during the off-season and we're friends. There are no surprises between us. I'm happy, this is a very important win for me."

Returning to the path of success after recently disappointing weeks was very important for him. Thiem had suffered five consecutive losses on the tour since his victory over Alex Molcan in Buenos Aires, which is a devastating record given the high expectations of the former world No.3."

Despite his modest performance this season, Thiem believes he is on the right track. "I'm actually playing much better than in the second half of 2022 when I won matches. My ball is heavier, I can hurt my opponents," he said. "Just a few things are not going as I wish."