Tennis has been suspended until at least mid-July while the world fights the coronavirus crisis, meaning some players will struggle to make a living during the shutdown.
However, Thiem questioned why he should ease the burden on such players ranked lower than himself and said his donations would be better placed elsewhere in society.
Donating money elsewhere
He added: “There are many, many players who don’t put the sport above everything else and don’t live in a professional manner.
“I don’t really see why I should give such players money. I’d rather give money to people or organizations that really need it.”
Thiem, 26, is yet to win a grand slam but has reached three major finals — most recently at this year’s Australian Open.
“None of us top players got anything handed to us, we all had to fight our way up. I don’t have the guarantee in any job that I will do well and earn lots of money,” he added.
Meanwhile, a host of the game’s most recognizable stars, such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, have publicly backed the scheme.
The struggle
The world No. 375 started an online petition asking for financial help from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for players struggling to pay the bills.
“I’ve talked to so many players and I’ve a couple of friends who don’t know how to pay the rent this month. A petition is a way to be heard,” she said.