The new Dimitrov wants to make a comeback in 2026: "I've had to start from scratch physically"

Carlos Navarro | 30 Dec 2025 | 15.25

Dimitrov promises to return to his best form in 2026. Source: Getty

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Grigor Dimitrov became the epicenter of the tennis ecosystem during an unfortunate summer afternoon. He was leading by a large margin against Jannik Sinner, surprising everyone with a magnificent performance on the immaculate courts of the All England Tennis Club... when a wrong move, a fateful gesture, tore his pectoral muscle and, at the same time, shattered his hopes of shining again on a big stage.

The journey back has been painful, filled with obstacles and a process of physical and personal reconstruction. With the invaluable presence of his new partner, Eiza González, to whom he credits for keeping him afloat in difficult times, Grigor embarked on a return journey that culminates with his arrival at the ATP Brisbane 2026, where he will start a new chapter in his sporting career. Alongside him, a new coach, Xavier Malisse... and a backpack full of obstacles that, indeed, have made him stronger.

"It took me a long time to strengthen my muscles again. It was a very painful, very tough summer. I couldn't serve, I couldn't hit my forehand, all of that. I spent a lot of time in the gym. It has been a long, very tough process, but I realized that I had no choice but to listen to my body". Along the way, the Bulgarian decided to make a 180-degree turn in his career, ending his professional relationship with Jamie Delgado and Daniel Vallverdú, setting a new physical plan and choosing Malisse, former #19 in the world, as his travel companion.

"Xavier will be by my side. We have signed a new agreement, and he brings me clarity. From a physical standpoint, I have undergone a complete reconstruction. Yes, all of these are quite significant changes. Last year, I started the season very strong, so I hope to do the same in 2026", says an excited Dimitrov, aware that the road is long but that his confidence in his tennis remains fully intact.

Dimitrov aims to return to his best form, making it clear that his ranking is misleading and setting ambitious goals for this new season

The starting position for the Bulgarian is not ideal: accustomed to being within the top 20 and enjoying the status of a seed in Grand Slams, he now sees those positions from a distance, from a world ranking of #44 that could force him to face tough opponents from the outset. A position that is temporary in Grigor's mind, as he is very clear that this place is deceiving.

"Every time I step on the court, it is to compete, give my best, and win the tournament, and now it will not be different. At the moment, my ranking does not reflect my game, but I trust that if I do things right and stay healthy, if my body truly allows me to push through in the tough moments of each match, great things will happen strong>". Certainly, confidence is not lacking: at 34 years old, the Bulgarian is convinced that he still has much to offer... and we, always admirers of one of the most aesthetic tennis styles on the circuit, will not argue with him.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El nuevo Dimitrov quiere resucitar en 2026: "He tenido que empezar de cero a nivel físico"