Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria secured a dramatic victory over sixth-seeded Andrey Rublev, reaching the US Open quarter-finals for the first time since 2019. The ninth-seeded Dimitrov displayed impressive composure and resilience to overcome the Russian’s determined comeback, ultimately winning 6-3, 7-6(3), 1-6, 3-6, 6-3.
Dimitrov’s powerful serving and efficient first-serve points (80% success rate) proved crucial throughout the match. He also fired 17 aces, keeping Rublev under pressure. However, the match was not without its tense moments. Rublev’s frustration peaked early on, evident in his slammed racket and self-inflicted injury, resulting in a cut wrist that required medical attention in the first set. Despite this setback, Rublev mounted a strong comeback, taking the third and fourth sets and forcing a decisive fifth.
The match’s momentum shifted dramatically in the fifth set. Dimitrov seized control, breaking Rublev in the fourth game and ultimately securing the win. The Bulgarian’s ability to maintain his composure and capitalize on crucial moments proved key in his victory.
“The steal of the second set really helped me to keep on believing and to keep on trusting in my game and in my body,” Dimitrov remarked to reporters. “After the first couple of sets, he started playing amazing. I mean, there’s not much else I could have done, so I had to pull the reins back a little bit and wait for an opportunity. It happened in the fifth. I think that was the big difference today. After that, I ran with the match, but it was very challenging.”
Dimitrov’s victory sets up an exciting quarterfinal clash against American Frances Tiafoe. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two talented players with distinct styles.
