Andy Roddick discusses Grigor Dimitrov's respected and well-liked reputation on the ATP Tour amidst his Wimbledon retirement.
Grigor Dimitrov was forced to retire in tears from his fourth-round match against Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon, after sustaining a pectoral muscle injury. The Bulgarian had been leading Sinner, the world number one, by two sets to love before the Centre Court roof was controversially closed, after which Dimitrov’s injury forced him out of the match.
This latest injury has raised concerns, as Dimitrov has struggled with setbacks throughout the year. His retirement from the match prompted an outpouring of support from the tennis community, highlighting his standing on the ATP Tour and beyond.
Andy Roddick Shares Insights on Dimitrov’s Standing Among Tour Players
Former world number oneAndy Roddick spoke extensively about Dimitrov’s reputation during his podcast, emphasizing how well regarded the Bulgarian is among his peers. Despite Dimitrov’s history of injuries, Roddick described him as
“one of the most well liked guys on Tour”
and praised his professionalism and work ethic.
Roddick elaborated on the severity of the pectoral injury, noting it is a critical issue for someone who relies so heavily on their serve. He remarked that Dimitrov is no longer young and has repeatedly faced tough moments, retiring in several Grand Slams recently, which has not affected his reputation for sportsmanship or dedication.
He reflected on the painful nature of Dimitrov’s exit at such a prestigious event and venue, saying,
Image of: Andy Roddick
“He is one of the most well liked guys on Tour, One of the most respected. I have not seen the other side of it but has a reputation as an incredibly professional, hard worker.”
—Andy Roddick, Former World No. 1
Roddick also shared his perspective on the emotional impact Dimitrov might be feeling, recalling his own experience at Wimbledon, and imagining the difficult thoughts crossing Dimitrov’s mind as he left the court:
“‘This is a bad injury, I have been going through a run of bad injuries. Will I be back here? Is this the way my Wimbledon story ends?’”
—Andy Roddick, Former World No. 1
Messages of Support Highlight Dimitrov’s Popularity Across Tennis
The reaction from fellow players and former competitors confirmed the high regard in which Dimitrov is held. James Blake, former world number four and current Miami Open tournament director, described Dimitrov as
“one of the nicest guys in tennis”
and expressed sadness over his injury.
Blake posted on social media,
“Gutted for @GrigorDimitrov after seeing that. One of the nicest guys in tennis and so hard to see tonight end that way. Wishing you a speedy recovery.”
—James Blake, Former World No. 4 and Miami Open Director
Similarly, six-time Grand Slam doubles champion Rennae Stubbs expressed sympathy in her message:
WTA player Eva Lys, ranked 61st in the world, empathized with Dimitrov’s misfortune, highlighting the cruel nature of the sport as Dimitrov has retired from five consecutive Grand Slam tournaments.
Paul McNamee, ex-world number one in doubles, also commented, noting the unfortunate timing for Dimitrov and suggesting Sinner benefited from this break:
“Grigor forced to default… how desperately unlucky … did not deserve this… Jannik gets a lucky break.”
—Paul McNamee, Former World No. 1 Doubles Player
Uncertainty Surrounds Dimitrov’s Injury Outlook as Wimbledon Progresses
The exact extent of Dimitrov’s pectoral injury remains unknown as he prepares to undergo scans to assess the damage. The injury could range from a serious tear to a less severe pull, but either scenario would mean a significant recovery period for the Bulgarian.
Meanwhile, Sinner himself experienced an injury scare during the match and faces a tight schedule to be fit for his upcoming Wimbledon quarter-final against Ben Shelton, adding further tension to the tournament’s later stages.
This series of events not only impacts the players directly involved but also shakes up the competition field at one of tennis’s most prestigious venues, leaving fans and analysts anxious to see how these injuries will affect the remainder of the championships.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Andy Roddick say about Nick Kyrgios?
A. Kyrgios has a big impact on tennis and often makes news. This means media outlets focus on him to attract views and clicks. People generally agree that his athletic condition hasn’t always been his strong suit.
Q. Are Andy Roddick and Roger Federer friends?
A. After cheering on his friend Roger Federer at the Met Gala, Andy Roddick comes back to Tennis Channel Live to share his insider view of the high-profile event.
Q. Why did Andy Roddick quit tennis?
A. Andy Roddick ended his tennis career after the 2012 US Open to dedicate time to the Andy Roddick Foundation. In 2015, he joined the Austin Aces in World Team Tennis. Roddick also won the QQQ Champions Series titles in 2015 and 2017.
Q. Why did Andy Roddick quit?
A. Roddick remained among the top ten players each year from 2002 to 2010 and became No. 1 in 2003. After the 2012 US Open, he retired to concentrate on his efforts with the Andy Roddick Foundation. In 2015, he played for the Austin Aces in World Team Tennis during his retirement.
