Grigor Dimitrov applauded Roger Federer for being a huge source of inspiration for people all around the globe and wished him all the best in the next chapter of his life. Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, is set to retire from professional tennis after the Laver Cup.
Throughout his career, Federer was known as a great champion and as a very nice and generous person. “Roger, You have inspired millions of people both on and off the court. You have led by example and shown courage, compassion and strength in every step you’ve taken to the top.
I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to know you personally and have been inspired by the moments we have gotten to share the court together. I wish you all the best as you start the next chapter of life and have no doubt your future will be as impressive as your past,” Dimitrov wrote on Instagram.
Dimitrov beat Federer once
Dimitrov, 31, clashed Federer eight times.
In those eight meetings, Dimitrov once ended on the winning side against Federer. Dimitrov, who was nicknamed Baby Fed at the start of his career, lost his first eight meetings versus Federer. Then at the 2019 US Open, Dimitrov clinched his first and lone victory over the Swiss.
At Flushing Meadows three years ago – which turned out to be Federer’s last appearance at the US Open – Dimitrov defeated the Swiss 3-6 6-4 3-6 6-4 6-2. After beating Federer for his first US Open semifinal, Dimitrov lost to Daniil Medvedev.
In recent years, Dimitrov admitted that he’s happy the nickname Baby Fed is a thing of the past now. Being compared to Federer early in his career didn’t help Dimitrov as it just added additional pressure on the Bulgarian’s back. Over the course of his career, Dimitrov has won at every level except the Grand Slam level.
