Jannik Sinner Advances to Wimbledon Quarterfinals After Grigor Dimitrov's Injury Withdrawal
Sinner's Reluctant Victory
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, the Italian tennis sensation, expressed his discomfort in claiming victory over Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov, who had to retire from their fourth-round match at Wimbledon 2025 on July 7.
Dimitrov was forced to withdraw due to a severe injury below his right arm. He had been performing exceptionally well against Sinner, winning the first two sets and nearly pulling off a significant upset.
During the third set, Dimitrov managed to hit an ace to level the score at 2-2 before he collapsed, clutching his right arm. After taking a medical timeout to evaluate his injury, he ultimately decided to retire, shaking hands with Sinner and conceding the match, allowing Sinner to progress to his fourth quarterfinal at Wimbledon.
Sinner's Respect for Dimitrov
Following his advancement to the quarterfinals, Jannik Sinner remarked that he does not view this as a true victory over Dimitrov, calling the situation 'unfortunate.'
"I don't take this as a win at all. This is just an unfortunate moment for all of us to witness," stated Sinner.
"He has faced numerous injuries in recent Grand Slams, so seeing him struggle again is very tough," he added.
"I don't take this as a win at all." Jannik Sinner showed great respect for his friend Grigor Dimitrov after the latter's retirement.
Dimitrov's Injury History
Grigor Dimitrov has had a history of injuries throughout his career. In the previous Wimbledon, he sustained a knee injury during his fourth-round match against Daniil Medvedev. He also withdrew from the US Open last year and both the Australian Open and Roland Garros this year due to ongoing physical challenges.
His recent exit from Wimbledon 2025 adds another chapter to a career often marred by injuries.
Sinner Praises Dimitrov's Work Ethic
Jannik Sinner further praised Dimitrov, recognizing him as one of the hardest-working players on the ATP tour and lamenting the unfortunate end to his Wimbledon campaign.
"We all saw by his reaction how much he cares about the sport. He is one of the hardest-working players on tour, and it is very unfortunate," Sinner remarked.
"This is not the end we wanted to see, and it's very sad. We all wish him only the best," he concluded.
Looking Ahead
Next, Jannik Sinner will face American tennis star Ben Shelton in the quarterfinals on July 9. Shelton reached his first Wimbledon quarterfinal by defeating Lorenzo Sonego in four sets.
Sinner and Shelton have met six times previously, with Sinner leading the series 5-1. Their last encounter was in the 2019 Australian Open semifinal, where Sinner triumphed in straight sets.