For many, the bubble scenario at the US Open has either put them off travelling or has scared them but for Thiem, he believes they are in the best place and that the draw is still 'strong' despite withdrawals.

“Honestly, I'm zero per cent nervous or scared about travelling here,” said Thiem. “I think we are safer than anywhere else on the whole planet. It's different. The one who wins the title here definitely deserves it, and players-wise or draw-wise, it's worth the same like every year.... The draw is still super, super strong.

“You have to play your cards smart there… Definitely until the end of the season, it's super busy and also not going to be easy to make a good schedule, to play all those tournaments physically and mentally 100 per cent. But I will try to do my best now.”