Grigor Dimitrov with a memory of the victory over Djokovic in Madrid and “a rather dubious hotel”

Madrid was the place where Grigor Dimitrov achieved his only victory so far against a current #1 in the rankings. Back in 2013, Dimitrov eliminated Novak Djokovic in a magnificent Manolo Santana clash, and now, 11 years later, he was asked to recall the emotions of that moment.

“It was quite a few years ago. I came earlier to Madrid and stayed in a rather questionable hotel. When I found out I was going to play with him, I thought it was time. I wanted to win to have money for another hotel. It was a very good experience. I wanted to feel the city, I walked all day. I didn’t even think so much that I had to play in the evening. It was one of those special nights – perfect temperature, full stands, it was an amazing game from both of them. A lot of throws on the court, there were interesting short, some debatable decisions on my part. It worked and it’s definitely one of my favorite moments here.”

“I like this type of match. To raise my level in such moments. I don’t think I had played with it before. I wanted to see what level I was at. This is where it worked out. There were no expectations. I wanted to play my best tennis,” added Dimitrov regarding the match in 2013.

He also talked about this year’s edition, in which he hopes there will be new positive emotions. “I try not to have expectations. I am my own critic. I have to do my best, prepare in the best way physically and in terms of tennis. There are no shortcuts. You want to win every game. No expectations.”

Dimitrov was also brought back to the past few months, associated with very good results at the Masters 1000 level. “It was great. I spoke to my team and told them it was a great performance from all of us. I’ve beaten a lot of good players consistently and in different weeks. I’m very proud of that. But in our sport, you don’t have time for enjoyment, because the next challenge is ahead. There are still days when it’s hard for me, but I don’t stop, I keep going. It gives me strength and makes me proud.”

Dimitrov takes a trip down memory lane! from archive on Vimeo.