In a dramatic round of 16 clash at Wimbledon 2025, Bulgarian tennis star Grigor Dimitrov was forced to retire due to injury while leading world No. 1 Jannik Sinner by two sets. As a result, Sinner progressed to the quarterfinals.
Dimitrov’s Commanding Start
Seeded 19th, Dimitrov entered the match carrying a history of injuries but looked in fine form early on. He captured the first set 6-3, becoming the first player in this year’s tournament to take a set off Sinner. The Bulgarian extended his advantage by edging out the second set 7-5, putting himself on the verge of a major upset.
Injury Strikes at a Crucial Moment
The momentum shifted abruptly at 2-2 in the third set. After firing a 96 mph ace to hold serve, Dimitrov suddenly dropped to the ground, clutching his right pectoral muscle in visible pain. Sinner and medical staff rushed to his side as a stunned Centre Court watched in silence.
Though he briefly left for treatment, Dimitrov soon returned only to officially retire, shaking Sinner’s hand in resignation. The crowd gave him a standing ovation as he walked off, overwhelmed with emotion, knowing a major win had slipped from his grasp.
A String of Unfortunate Retirements
This marks Dimitrov’s fifth straight Grand Slam retirement, adding to a streak of physical setbacks. In the past year, he withdrew from Roland Garros due to a leg issue and retired against Daniil Medvedev at Wimbledon 2024. Despite undergoing extensive rehab and feeling fit in London, this latest injury deepens his injury woes.
Sinner Advances, Faces Shelton Next
With Dimitrov’s exit, 23-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner advances to the quarterfinals where he will face Ben Shelton. While the victory allows Sinner time to manage an ongoing elbow concern, it came under somber circumstances.
Sinner Pays Tribute to Dimitrov
Speaking after the match, Sinner expressed sympathy and admiration for Dimitrov: He added, “Honestly, if he could have continued, he deserved to move forward. I hope he recovers quickly. This was just very unlucky.”