Grigor Dimitrov had Wimbledon 2025 all wrapped up but his body had other plans. He played great against World #1 Jannik Sinner. #1 Jannik Sinner though changed everything. Let’s try to understand the who and why of this heartbreak.
In the 4th round of Wimbledon Grigor Dimitrov played amazing against Jannik Sinner. He was up 2 sets 6-3, 7-5. Their serve was on fire reaching 141mph. Sinner was struggling with his forehand and net game. Everyone thought Dimitrov was going to cause an upset.
But the 3rd set was a complete reversal. With a low backhand volley Grigor Dimitrov clutched the right side of his chest. He hit an ace in the next point and then sat down on the ground. They said “My pec” as they were in agony. He couldn’t continue to play despite the medical team checking him out.
In the end he had to retire. For him it was a very sad day. Sinner who rarely loses was about to beat Dimitrov who was 2 sets up. The biggest win of his career would have been if he won. But his injury prevented him from doing so.
Grigor Dimitrov’s body has betrayed him before. He’s retired from injury in each of the last 5 Grand Slams. Wimbledon, US Open, Australian Open, French Open and now again Wimbledon. For him this is a sad record. These injuries are getting more and more problematic for his career now that he’s 34 years old.
Grigor Dimitrov has always been called “Baby Fed” because of his style of play. But Dimitrov has had injuries and bad luck throughout his career while Federer has won many titles. He played during the Big Three era and now in the era of young talents like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. He wasn’t lucky.
Before the match Grigor Dimitrov said “Let’s have fun” and “They were feeling good and physically fit”. He beat Sebastian Ofner easily. But maybe his body paid the price for the 13 minute interruption in the Sinner match to close the Centre Court roof. Or maybe it was just his career.
After the match Sinner offered Grigor Dimitrov his condolences. He said he doesn’t see it as a win. Sinner was also going to have an MRI because of an elbow injury. But Dimitrov suffered the most. The crowd gave him a standing ovation as he left the court crying.
In the books of Wimbledon, Grigor Dimitrov’s performance will be a small footnote. But it should be remembered. He was two sets down in the last 17 months and was about to beat Sinner. On that day he played at his best.
Grigor Dimitrov’s career is in question after this loss. Can he recover at 34 and all the injuries? Although he still has the skill and talent, his body is not responding. Thinking about the fact that he might never have such a big chance again makes you feel bad.
Eiza González, Grigor Dimitrov’s girlfriend and a Hollywood star, wrote him a beautiful note. She came to Wimbledon to support him. They first met at 2025 Madrid Open. Dimitrov is still liked and supported as Eiza’s message shows.
Mark Phury is a dynamic sports enthusiast with a knack for capturing the thrill of the game. With 3 years at Hindustan Times, he delivers sharp, engaging stories that resonate with fans. Reach him at markphury@gmail.com for insights that score every time.