In Monday’s fourth-round match against Jannik Sinner, Grigor Dimitrov suffered a partially torn pectoral muscle after going up two sets on the World No. 1.
Dimitrov’s heartbreaking retirement from the match sent shockwaves throughout the tennis community as fans and players alike wished him well.
Now, as semifinal action continues at SW19, Dimitrov has broken his silence on the injury, sharing an update with fans via social media.
Along with a series of photos, including one of him at the hospital, Dimitrov wrote:
“Sometimes the heart wants to keep going… but the universe has a different plan for us. Having to withdraw from this match at Wimbledon was one of the most painful moments of my career.
“Thank you for the overwhelming wave of love — from family, friends, fans, colleagues, to the entire tennis community… your messages have genuinely lifted me through these hard times. Thank you all. Truly. Recovery starts now. I’ll see you all soon. G”
While initial fears were that the former World No. 3 had suffered a total tear of his pectoral muscle, upon further examination, it was determined that he suffered only a partial tear.
As a result, the hope is that with rehab, he will be fit to return for the US Open.
Tennis Community Rallies Around Dimitrov Following Latest Update
In response to Grigor Dimitrov’s latest update, the tennis community has continued to shower the longtime veteran with words of encouragement.
In response to his post on Instagram, a number of players were quick to wish the Bulgarian star well in the comments section.
Former World No. 8 Diego Schwartzman, who retired back in February, replied: “All the best my friend!!! We all want to see u back. Keep your head up.”
Márton Fucsovics, who was eliminated by Ben Shelton in the third round of this year’s tournament, added: “Wishing you quick recovery bro.”
Two-time Wimbledon finalist Sabine Lisicki replied: “Wishing you a speedy recovery, We love seeing you out there!”
Karen Khachanov, who was taken out by Taylor Fritz in the quarterfinals, wrote: “Bratko wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong and positive my friend ! Big hug.”
Additionally, several other athletes like Olympic Skier Lindsey Vonn, and celebrities like Eva Longoria sent Dimitrov heartfelt messages as well.
Looking at the Upcoming ATP Calendar As Grigor Dimitrov Begins Road to Recovery
As previously mentioned, given that Grigor Dimitrov managed to avoid a potentially career-ending injury, the hope is that he’ll be able to return in time for the US Open, which is set to begin on Sunday, Aug. 24.
According to the initial update shared by Bulgarian Outlet Tennis Kafe, Dimitrov will notably avoid surgery, with the hope being that through rehab, he’ll be back to 100% in time for the final Grand Slam of the year.
Between now and then, the longtime veteran will miss several tournaments. In addition to ATP 250 events, Dimitrov will notably miss the ATP 500 Mudabala Citi DC Open in Washington later this month.
Additionally, he will miss two Masters 1000 tournaments, both the National Bank Open, which begins on Jul. 27, and the Cincinnati Open, which begins on Aug. 7.
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