"The game is better having him back" - Millman praises Thiem following victory over the Austrian

Dominic Thiem had his return to the ATP circuit spoiled by John Millman, who recorded a three-set victory over the former World No.3 at the Serbia Open.

Millman recorded a 6-3 3-6 6-4 win over the Austrian, who was making a comeback to the tour after being away since June of last year due to injury. Although Thiem played aggressively and showed glimpses of his former self, he was unable to seal the deal against the Australian.

“It is great to be back here,” Millman said in his on-court interview. “I was looking forward to coming back and play. All credit to Domi. I can’t claim it was one of my biggest wins because he is just coming back from injury and I know how hard that is, coming back from three surgeries myself.

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“I know it has been tough for Domi but the game is better having him back. Especially on this surface. I have got to take this win because when he gets better and fitter, it is going to be tough.”

With his victory, Millman claimed his first win in four career meetings with Thiem. The World No. 80 will next meet Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic.