In Tennis, Grigor Dimitrov Has a Renaissance

Grigor Dimitrov had just lost an exhausting combat, of more than two hours and three sets to Jakub Mensik in Shanghai three weeks ago. The majority of the defeated players are directed directly to the locker room and leave the sand quickly.

But Dimitrov is not a common guy. Dimitrov, one of the most beloved and respected competitors on the ATP tour, includes his role as a tennis leader. So, here I was, by phone, answering questions, sincerely and honestly, in the last hours of the night.

At 33, Dimitrov is a rebirth at a time when many of his contemporaries are contemplating retirement. Once called Baby Fed because the impressive setback of one hand resembled Roger Federer, Dimitrov classified a number 3 in his career in 2017. Just in the top 30 at the beginning of 2023, now it is not. 9. NOVAK DJOKOVIC runner -up in Paris Masters last year, Dimitrov highlights the rhythm in the race to qualify for this year’s ATP finals.

The next conversation has been edited and condensed.

Some players have trouble staying motivated at the end of the season. You?

When you have competed so many years, you really don’t think so much about that. Whether it is my last tournament or will help me reach the final, it is stressful for each player, but all take it differently. I always know that it is good to finish the year with a good note.

What is the key for you to play well inside?

I like the way the surface develops. It is softer on the legs. It is basically like playing in wood, and I grew up [in Bulgaria] Play in wood so that I can interact with her very well, and brings me good memories.

What keeps you calm in tense situations?

You reach a point where you appreciate those tense moments. Never ages. Because no matter how good you are or how old you are on the tour, everyone gets nervous. I always have very aware of that. So, I focus on the basics, my breathing, anything else I can do. Once you like manifestations, you live at that time.

You returned to Top 10 for the first time since 2018 this year. What did that mean for you?

It meant a lot for different reasons. I had my own battles, I was dealing with things and I had my own running career. I was able to overcome myself in good sense.

You had to get out of Wimbledon and the US Open. Due to injuries this year. Does that make you think about what comes after tennis?

Right now I am in a place where I am really enjoying what I do. You get hooked with what you have to do, and you don’t have time to think. When I have inactivity time, my thoughts begin to derive. I always say, after tennis real life begins.

What tennis goals do you have, if any?

One of the most important things is to keep my body because it depends a lot on that at this time. When you have things that you cannot control, it is difficult, especially mentally. I think we are not talking enough about mental aspects. There is so much mental health work that must be done. I try to concentrate on working hard from the inside out.

What brings you more joy?

I wish I could say that winning a tournament or just practicing brings me joy. Everything brings me joy. I love riding cars and motorcycles and flying. I love preparation for a game. I want that adrenaline in my life.

Do you have any regret?

I have experienced many misfortunes in my life, which not many people know. Who judges me, I don’t care because only I know my story and what costs to reach this performance. Trying to explain why I didn’t do it or not, I could have a better leg. Ok, great. But at the same time, there were two or three times that I was about to retire from sport. Everyone will go, “But why?” There is no “why” at this time; There is only ahead now.