Grigor Dimitrov Retires Due to Injury in Wimbledon Round of 16: Jannik Sinner Advances
In a dramatic turn of events at Wimbledon, Grigor Dimitrov was just one set away from a stunning upset against the tournament’s No. 1 seed, Jannik Sinner, when an unfortunate injury forced him to retire. Leading 6-3, 7-5, 2-2, Dimitrov had high hopes for a breakthrough performance, but an apparent pectoral injury changed the course of the match.
During a serve, Dimitrov suddenly fell on the grass court, visibly in pain and clutching his right pectoral muscle. The trainers rushed to assist him, but all Dimitrov could do was chuckle at the irony of the situation, knowing that his potential upset was slipping away.
After a medical timeout, Dimitrov returned to the court, shook hands with Sinner, and confirmed he could not continue. The crowd at Centre Court responded with a heartfelt ovation as he packed up and exited the tournament.
“I don’t take this as a win at all,” Sinner remarked after the match, showing great respect for his opponent. "He is an incredible player, and we all witnessed his talent today. He’s had some tough luck in recent years."
Dimitrov had been performing well at Wimbledon, aiming for his first semifinal appearance since 2014, which remains his best run in the tournament. However, injuries have plagued him throughout his career, particularly during Grand Slam events. This latest retirement marks the fifth consecutive tournament he has had to withdraw from, following a thigh injury at the French Open and an abductor tear in 2024 against Daniil Medvedev.
Despite not viewing the match as a victory, Sinner will now prepare for his upcoming quarterfinal clash against rising American star Ben Shelton, the tournament’s No. 10 seed. Shelton advanced by defeating Lorenzo Sonego with a scoreline of 3-6, 6-1, 7-6, 7-5.
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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
