STARNBERG, June 14, 2020

Dominic Thiem is the champion of the Adria Tour charity event in Belgrade. The World No. 3 from Austria fought past Filip Krajinovic of Serbia, winning 4-3(2), 2-4, 4-2 in Sunday’s final held under the lights at Novak’s tennis complex.

Thiem capitalized on two of his four break points opportunities and won 53 per cent of the total points played to secure victory in one hour and 14 minutes.

There you have it, folks. @ThiemDomi is the first ever champion of the #AdriaTour. 👏

The Austrian defeats Filip Krajinovic 4-3(2), 2-4, 4-2. pic.twitter.com/04hNoGCYvv

— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) June 14, 2020

“We all gave our best, as it was for a good cause. Playing in front of this crowd created an amazing atmosphere. I enjoyed it a lot,” Thiem told the fans during his post match on-court interview.

“It was my first time in Belgrade, in Serbia and I couldn’t imagine a better welcome. Thanks to the crowd. It was very special. Also big thanks to Novak and his team for organizing this event.”

Djokovic falls in the group stage

Earlier in the day, local favourite and Adria Tour organizer Novak Djokovic defeated Alexander Zverev 4-0, 1-4, 4-2 in one hour and two minutes in the last match of the group stage but the World No. 1 needed to beat the German in straight sets in order to qualify for the final.

“I am not crying because I got knocked out of the tournament, I am just overwhelmed by emotion because this reminds me of my childhood,” Djokovic told the crowd as he received a standing ovation from his compatriots. “It’s been emotional few days and I want to thank everyone who made this possible. The important thing after this match is that we have one of our own in the final. I love you all and thank you so much for turning up.”

The tournament in Belgrade was the first stage of the Adria Tour. The second leg is taking place in Croatia’s coastal resort Zadar next weekend.