Dimitrov Beats Mensik to Extend Emotional Wimbledon Return
Former world number three Grigor Dimitrov, who has reached three Grand Slam semi-finals including Wimbledon in 2014, secured a significant victory as he returned to Wimbledon after a year-long injury hiatus.
Nearly a year after his tearful exit from Centre Court due to an injury that halted a remarkable match against world number one Jannik Sinner, Dimitrov experienced a familiar moment as the roof began to close on Court One.
Before a 10-minute break to close the Centre Court roof in 2025, the Bulgarian, once nicknamed 'baby Fed' for his playing style reminiscent of Roger Federer, was showcasing some of his best tennis in years.
As the wildcard edged closer to a four-set victory over Czech 15th seed Jakub Mensik on Thursday, Dimitrov reflected on the night that has shaped his recent journey.
"I looked up four or five times, hoping that I was going to finish the match before they decided to close the roof," Dimitrov said.
"It was almost like deja vu, but all you can do is smile. What happened in the past stays there and I have to embrace what comes next, whether it is good or bad."
This time, however, there was no heartbreak.
Following his opening victory, the 35-year-old became emotional again as he addressed the crowd that had supported him throughout his 7-6 (7-5) 4-6 7-5 6-3 win, which secured his place in the third round and a match against Italy's Matteo Berrettini.
"I'm very emotional and a little bit overwhelmed at the moment. All I wanted to do is just come out and fight, that was my goal. I didn't even think about winning or losing, I didn't even think about my body to that extent," Dimitrov said.
"The atmosphere was just spectacular as always. I feel so loved and so supported everywhere in the world, but coming to Wimbledon is extra special for me and I want you guys to know that.
"The path here has been so difficult. It is all about conquering myself and playing tennis like I did today, regardless of the outcome."
Fery Reaches Third Round to Keep British Hopes Alive
Swiatek Overpowers Pliskova to Reach Third Round
Boulter and Watson Among Britons to Exit Doubles
Dimitrov has openly discussed the physical and mental challenges following a tear to his right pectoral muscle, which ended his chances against Sinner a year ago.
The injury left him uncertain about full recovery, and the emotional impact of the event only became clear months later.
This marked the fifth consecutive Grand Slam where Dimitrov retired injured, and he did not return to the tour until October.
He missed last year's US Open, ending his streak of 58 consecutive Grand Slam appearances. Currently ranked 146th, Dimitrov lost in the first round of the Australian Open and exited in the first round of qualifying for the French Open earlier this year.
He described his first-round win upon returning to Wimbledon as a memorable day, and his victory over French Open semi-finalist Mensik suggests this will be another.
"Every match you win, it's great. It's as simple as that. I know it sounds like a bit of a cliche right now, but it's really not about winning or losing for me. I am happy.
"This week has been the best week in the past 12 months, without a doubt.
"I was pushing myself on daily basis. Only I know what I've gone through in the past months.
"I just really try to stay in the moment as much as I can, embrace it, cherish it."
Wimbledon Success 'Definitely Possible' - Zverev
Alexander Zverev expressed optimism about his prospects at Wimbledon after advancing to the third round with a commanding win over Valentin Royer.
Having lost his first three major finals, Zverev claimed his first Grand Slam title last month by defeating Flavio Cobolli at the French Open.
The German second seed, who has never progressed beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon, said the recent triumph has boosted his confidence.
"It builds confidence when you win in straight sets, especially at Wimbledon where I am still waiting for a big result," Zverev said following his 6-1 6-3 7-6 (7-3) victory.
"If I continue playing like this, I think it is definitely possible this year."
After Royer, ranked 75th, held serve in the opening game, Zverev won the next nine games and did not face a break point until late in the third set when he faltered with a double fault.
Royer capitalized to force a tie-break, but Zverev recovered to secure the win in just over two hours, setting up a third-round match against American Marcos Giron.
Earlier on Thursday, Taylor Fritz, who defeated Zverev in the Halle Open final last month, returned in a tailored pre-match suit and defeated fellow American Patrick Kypson 6-2 6-2 7-5.
Australian fifth seed Alex de Minaur also advanced with a decisive 6-3 6-2 6-2 win over French veteran Adrian Mannarino.
'Zero?' Serve Stats Surprise Zverev
- Live scores, results and order of play
- Get tennis news sent straight to your phone
