Grigor Dimitrov expressed his sympathy after Rafael Nadal withdrew from the Australian Open, saying that it was the worst thing that could have occurred to the 37-year-old at the time.
Nadal was sidelined for almost all of 2023 before making a comeback to the court at the Brisbane International to begin his 2024 campaign. He won his opening two matches there in straight sets.
But Nadal sustained a microtear in his hip area during the quarterfinal loss to Jordan Thompson, making him unavailable for the Australian Open later this month.
During his post-match press conference, Dimitrov was asked about his feelings regarding Nadal’s withdrawal. The Bulgarian player responded by saying he was disappointed to miss out on the opportunity to watch him play in Melbourne.
Dimitrov said: “What can I say? This is the worst thing that can happen. I don’t know. I hope it’s not too bad, for sure. I have a practice with him this week. I guess that’s not going to happen.”
He added: “I watched him practice a few times here. I always like watching him play, regardless of whether it’s a practice or a match. I mean, for sure, that’s disappointing. Much more to him than anybody else. I was looking forward to that. I guess this thing has to wait a little bit. I wish him a speedy recovery for sure. I hope to see him back, at least for the clay. This is something I think I can never get bored of watching.”
Grigor Dimitrov in 2024
At the moment ranked no.13, Grigor played his last match on the 7th of January when he overcame world no.8 Holger Rune 7-6(5) 6-4 in the final in Brisbane to win his 9th career title.
This season Grigor owns a compiled 5-0 record. Dimitrov conquered 1 title in Brisbane.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Currently the world no.451, Nadal played his last match on the 5th of January when he surrendered to world no.47 Jordan Thompson 5-7 7-6(6) 6-3 in the quarter in Brisbane (draw).
During this season the Spaniard owns a compiled 2-1 win-loss record.
Grigor Dimitrov and Rafael Nadal faced off 15 times. Their current record is 14-1 for Nadal. The last time they played, Rafael Nadal won 6-1 6-1 in the 3rd round in Monte-Carlo (Monte) in April 2021.
In the video below you can watch the highlights.