Bulgarian tennis star Grigor Dimitrov described his Wimbledon withdrawal as the “most painful moment” of his career, announcing the decision on July 11, 2025, after a shoulder injury sidelined him ahead of his quarterfinal match.
The 34-year-old, who reached the fourth round with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Sebastian Korda, cited a recurring shoulder issue aggravated during practice. His exit ended a promising run that saw him climb to world number 10.
Dimitrov, a 2014 semifinalist, expressed devastation on social media, noting the tournament’s personal significance as his best surface. Medical reports suggest a recovery timeline of six to eight weeks, targeting the US Open on August 24.
Fans and peers, including Novak Djokovic, offered support, while analysts speculate the injury stems from his aggressive playing style. The withdrawal hands a walkover to Taylor Fritz, reshaping the draw, and Dimitrov plans rehabilitation with his team in Monaco.