Thiem Makes Return In Rio

Following his final run at the Australian Open, Dominic Thiem will make his return to his favorite clay surface in Rio this week.

Thiem will be heavily favored in his first clay event since the summer. The Austrian will be up against players like Dusan Lajovic, Guido Pella, Cristian Garin, Borna Coric and Casper Ruud.

Thiem will open against Brazilian wildcard Felipe Meligeni Rodrigues Alves as he bids for a second Rio title after 2017.

Thiem could face Jaume Munar in the second, Ruud in the quarters with Pella or Fernando Verdasco in the semifinals.

Pablo Cuevas is the only other former champion in the field after defending champion Laslo Djere withdrew due to an ab injury.