Tennis will lose one of its most respected stars in Dominic Thiem who has announced his plans to retire.

The 31-year-old is set to write the final chapter of his career when he competes in the Vienna Open in front of his home crowd next week.

Thiem is walking away from the sport with the respect of his fellow pros and a bulging bank balanceGetty

But in an era that has been dominated by Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray, Thiem’s achievements have flown somewhat under the radar.

The Austrian ends his career as a grand slam winner, having claimed glory in the US Open in 2020.

Beating Alexander Zverev in the final at Flushing Meadows, Thiem came from two sets and a break down to come away victorious.

He’s still the only man in the Open Era to win a US Open final from two sets down.

Thiem was also just two points from losing the slam final in the fifth set, before coming back to win it 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (6).

In winning the US Open, Thiem ended a run that saw men born in the 1980s win the last 63 majors – a record that stretched over nearly 16 years.

Born in 1993, Thiem has now been joined by another 90s kid (Medvedev) and two born in the 2000s (Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner).

Along with his US Open victory, Thiem reached three more grand slam finals in his career.

That included the French Open final in 2018 and 2019, where he was beaten in both by ‘King of Clay’ Nadal, as well as the Australian Open final in 2020, where he lost to Djokovic

His 17 career titles also contributed to his rather impressive career earnings.

His US Open win in 2020 made history for the AustrianGetty Images – Getty

Thiem is hugely respected on the LTA tourGetty

In his career to date, Thiem – who had a career high of world No.3 in the ATP rankings – has earned more than $30 million (£23million).

Such is the Austrian’s reputation on the tour, Djokovic and Federer both paid tribute to him ahead of his final bow in Vienna.

“You were always a super guy, also off the court,” said Federer.

“Always fair. Your friendship was important on the Tour. We always got on well, and it was great for me.

“All the best with the future, and huge congratulations on your unbelievable career, Dominic. I am sure we will see each other soon, but for now, have a great evening.”

Djokovic added: “Thank you very much for all that you have given to all of us, but particularly tennis.

“I’m glad that you have the opportunity to say goodbye in Vienna. One last dance.

“I wish you a great tournament, with all your family members present, and celebrate it, because you deserve it my friend. All the best.”