Dimitrov’s Wimbledon Heartbreak Lingers as US Open Passes By
As the 2025 US Open rolls into its third round, one familiar face is notably absent from the draw: Grigor Dimitrov. The Bulgarian fan favorite, known for his fluid shot-making and graceful movement, was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to a lingering pectoral injury one that abruptly ended his Wimbledon campaign in July during a dramatic clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
Dimitrov’s third-round match at Wimbledon had all the makings of a classic. He was playing inspired tennis, leading Sinner by a set and showcasing some of his best form of the season. But just as the match tilted in his favor, Dimitrov’s body betrayed him. A sharp pain in his chest area later confirmed as a pectoral tear forced him to retire mid-match, despite visibly trying to push through the discomfort.
It was devastating, Dimitrov said in a recent interview. I was playing some of my best grass-court tennis in years, and to go out like that… it was a tough pill to swallow.
The injury not only cost him a real shot at making a deep run at Wimbledon but also derailed his North American hard-court season. Despite efforts to return in time for the US Open, his team and medical staff made the call to pull out, prioritizing long-term recovery over short-term risk.
The withdrawal officially ended Dimitrov’s streak of 58 consecutive Grand Slam main-draw appearances, one of the longest active streaks in men’s tennis. It’s a significant milestone that speaks to both his longevity and resilience a fact not lost on his peers or fans.
It’s been a weird year, Dimitrov admitted. There’s been a lot of stop-and-go. I’ve had a few injuries I’ve never dealt with before, and mentally that’s been a different kind of challenge.
At 34, Dimitrov has experienced a quiet resurgence over the past two seasons, reaching multiple ATP semifinals and reestablishing himself inside the top 15. But the recent setbacks cast uncertainty over his momentum heading into the final stretch of the year.
Still, Dimitrov remains optimistic. I know what I need to do. I’ve been here before, and I’ll be back, he said.
For now, the US Open will continue without one of its most elegant competitors but his presence is missed, and his return will be highly anticipated.
