Bulgarian · Haskovo, Bulgaria · Born 16 May 1991Grigor Dimitrov is a Bulgarian professional tennis player who reached a career-high ranking of world No. 3, the highest ever for a Bulgarian.
Grigor Dimitrov was born on 16 May 1991 in Haskovo, Bulgaria, to Dimitar, a tennis coach, and Maria, a former volleyball player and sports teacher, and picked up his first racquet at three under his father's guidance. He enjoyed an outstanding junior career, winning the boys' singles titles at both the 2008 Wimbledon Championships and US Open, as well as a European Under-14 title, before turning professional that year. Dimitrov's elegant, all-court game and single-handed backhand drew early comparisons to Roger Federer, earning him the nickname "Baby Fed," and he became the first Bulgarian man to break into the ATP top 40, reaching a career-high singles ranking of world No. 3 on 20 November 2017 — the highest ever achieved by a Bulgarian player. Dimitrov capped that breakthrough season by winning the ATP Finals in London, defeating David Goffin in the final to become the first debutant champion at the event since Alex Corretja in 1998. He reached the semi-finals of three different Grand Slam tournaments across his career: Wimbledon in 2014, the Australian Open in 2017, and the US Open in 2019. Dimitrov was named Bulgarian Sportsperson of the Year in both 2014 and 2017, and has continued competing on the ATP Tour into his thirties despite recurring injury setbacks, including a pectoral tear that forced his retirement from a fourth-round match against Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships while leading by two sets — the fifth consecutive Grand Slam he was forced to withdraw from through injury.
Highest-ranked Bulgarian tennis player in history
Nicknamed 'Baby Federer' for his elegant playing style, he was mentored by the great Roger Federer's former coach Paul Annacone.
Did You Know?How They Played
Dimitrov possesses an all-court game with exceptional shot-making ability and court coverage. His single-handed backhand is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing shots in tennis, complemented by a reliable serve and strong net play. He combines power with finesse and adapts well to different playing surfaces.
Lasting Impact
Dimitrov became the first Bulgarian player to reach the top 10 in ATP rankings and inspired a generation of tennis players in his home country.
Career Honours
- 9 ATP Tour singles titles including the 2017 ATP Finals
- career-high ranking No. 3
Bulgarian Athletes