Grigor Dimitrov secured his place in the quarterfinals of the US Open after a marathon five-set battle against Russia’s Andrey Rublev.
The Bulgarian tennis star triumphed 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 1-6, 3-6, 6-3 on the prestigious Arthur Ashe Stadium court, marking the second time in his career that he has reached this stage in the tournament.
The nearly four-hour contest tested both players’ physical and mental endurance, as Dimitrov showcased his resilience and determination to overcome Rublev’s relentless play.
The 32-year-old Bulgarian started strong, taking the first set 6-3 after breaking Rublev’s serve once. His precise shot-making and ability to dictate rallies allowed him to control the tempo early on, putting pressure on his opponent.
The second set, however, presented a significant challenge for Dimitrov. Rublev, determined to level the match, earned a break and served for the set at 5-3.
Just as it seemed Rublev would gain momentum, Dimitrov dug deep, breaking back and forcing a tiebreak. In the tiebreaker, Dimitrov displayed composure and confidence, winning 7-3 to take a two-set lead.
Despite the advantage, Rublev mounted a comeback in the third and fourth sets, capitalizing on Dimitrov’s physical struggles.
The Russian player took control with powerful groundstrokes and aggressive play, winning the third set 6-1 and the fourth set 6-3. Dimitrov appeared to be fading, but his resolve remained unbroken.
In the decisive fifth set, Dimitrov regrouped and found a second wind. He refocused his efforts, breaking Rublev’s serve once again and holding on to his lead.
With the crowd behind him, Dimitrov sealed the victory with a 6-3 win in the final set, securing his spot in the quarterfinals.
“I knew I had to stay mentally strong and fight through the tough moments,” Dimitrov said in his post-match interview. “Andrey is an incredible player, and I’m just happy I managed to pull through in the end.”
This quarterfinal appearance mirrors Dimitrov’s impressive run in 2019 when he reached the semifinals after defeating tennis legend Roger Federer.
Although he ultimately fell to Daniil Medvedev in the final four that year, Dimitrov’s 2023 campaign signals that he remains a formidable force on the tour.
Dimitrov’s journey at the US Open is far from over, as he now awaits the winner of the match between Alexei Popyrin of Australia and American Frances Tiafoe. The Bulgarian will be keen to build on his momentum as he eyes another deep run at the Grand Slam.
For Rublev, the loss marked another disappointing end to a Grand Slam campaign, as he continues to search for his breakthrough on the biggest stage.
Despite his strong performance in the middle of the match, the Russian was unable to maintain his level in the fifth set, allowing Dimitrov to claim victory.
As Dimitrov advances to the quarterfinals, the world will be watching to see if the Bulgarian can continue his resurgence and make another strong push towards Grand Slam glory.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members