Grigor Dimitrov overcame a spirited fightback from Matteo Berrettini to win 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 5-7, 6-3 on Centre Court at Wimbledon, advancing to the fourth round for the first time since 2017. The Bulgarian, who tore a pectoral muscle against Jannik Sinner last year, described his return as 'amazing' and expressed joy at competing again.
Dimitrov's Emotional Victory
After the match, Dimitrov said: 'Honestly, it's amazing to be back here. I'm just so happy, so happy. Honestly, I just wanted to come and compete again in front of you guys. There's something special in the air.' His victory was cathartic after last year's injury, which forced him to withdraw while leading the now world No. 1 Sinner.
Dimitrov broke early in the first set, winning 74% of points on his second serve compared to Berrettini's 20%. The Bulgarian's net play also proved decisive. However, Berrettini, a 2021 finalist, fought back by winning the third and fourth sets, breaking Dimitrov's serve at crucial moments. The roof closure during the third set frustrated Dimitrov, but he regrouped to break for 2-1 in the fifth and secured victory on his second match point when Berrettini hit a forehand long.
Other Matches and Results
Fifth seed Alex de Minaur defeated American Zach Svajda 6-2, 5-7, 6-2, 6-4 to reach the fourth round for the fourth time in five years. He will face Flavio Cobolli, the French Open runner-up. De Minaur said: 'I need to remind myself more frequently that best-of-five is a completely different beast... they need to do that for three sets in a row.'
French Open champion Alexander Zverev equalled his best Wimbledon run by beating Marcos Giron 6-2, 7-6 (4), 6-4. Sixth seed Taylor Fritz defeated Lorenzo Sonego 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (5), and Alexander Bublik overcame Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (11), 4-6, 6-3.
What's Next for Dimitrov
Dimitrov will face British wildcard Arthur Fery, who edged out Zizou Bergs in a deciding-set tie-break. Dimitrov, who dubbed the match 'the pretty match' in a nod to both players' styles and looks, aims to 'rewrite everything again' after his injury setback.
