Jamie Delgado, coach to Grigor Dimitrov, broke his silence on the Bulgarian’s heartbreaking retirement during his fourth-round match against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon 2025 on July 7, describing it as “devastating, disappointing, and heartbreaking” in an interview with *Tennis World USA*. Dimitrov, leading 6-3, 7-5, 2-2, was on the verge of a stunning upset when he collapsed in pain after serving an ace, clutching his right pectoral muscle. Despite briefly continuing, he retired in tears, marking his fifth consecutive Grand Slam withdrawal due to injury, per *BBC Sport*.
Delgado praised Dimitrov’s execution, noting, “Grigor followed the tactical plan to perfection, playing one of his career-best matches against Jannik. We were all convinced he could win,” per *Tennis World USA*. He highlighted Dimitrov’s 14 aces and 95% first-serve win rate, which overwhelmed Sinner, who was also battling an elbow injury from a fall, per *Sky Sports*. Delgado dismissed suggestions that the Centre Court roof closure disrupted Dimitrov’s rhythm, telling the BBC, “Grigor liked it when the roof went on; it felt warmer, and his body loosened up,” countering Andy Murray’s criticism of the “ridiculous” decision, per *profootballnetwork.com*.
The emotional toll was evident as Dimitrov left to a standing ovation, with Sinner helping carry his bags, per *The Athletic*. Delgado emphasized the mental recovery ahead, stating, “Grigor’s emotional and mental recovery will be more difficult than his physical one,” per *Tennis World USA*. Sinner, advancing to face Ben Shelton, called it “not a win at all,” wishing Dimitrov a speedy recovery, per *ATP Tour*. Posts on X, like @TheTennisLetter (July 7, 2025), captured the sentiment, calling it “hard to watch” for the “kind and hardworking” Dimitrov.
