Grigor Dimitrov Makes a Triumphant Return to the Paris Stage after Injury Layoff
Bulgarian star steps back onto the court after a 14-week hiatus
October 25, 2025
Photo by Corinne Dubreuil/ATP Tour
Grigor Dimitrov made it to the final of the Rolex Paris Masters in 2023.
By Jerome Coombe
The joy on Grigor Dimitrov’s face speaks volumes.
After a challenging 14-week pause due to a pectoral injury, the 34-year-old Bulgarian is ready to compete again at the Rolex Paris Masters, and his excitement is palpable within the vibrant atmosphere of La Défense Arena.
“It’s a whirlwind of emotions in the best possible way. It feels great to be back with my fellow competitors and to reignite those challenges,” Dimitrov shared with ATPTour.com. “I’ve been focusing on maximizing my time on the court, as that’s what I’ve truly missed. At the same time, I’m keeping things simple and manageable.”
“Naturally, my aim is to come back stronger next year, but for now, it’s all about gauging how my body responds in this moment.”
He’s BAAAACK !!!#RolexParisMasters | #Dimitrov pic.twitter.com/elSuGLjKpK
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 24, 2025
His last appearance was at Wimbledon, where he showcased some of his most electrifying play, taking a two-sets-to-love lead against then-World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the fourth round. Sadly, injury struck again, marking his fifth consecutive early major exit through retirement.
This heartbreak was captured vividly through his tears. But now, as he steps back into the spotlight in Paris—where he reached the finals in 2023—Dimitrov’s zest for the game is unmistakably back.
The former World No. 3 practiced with close friend Andrey Rublev on Friday night, then returned to the court less than a day later to train with Francisco Cerundolo.
“I’ve always relished these final tournaments of the year,” Dimitrov expressed, the 2017 Nitto ATP Finals champion. “Right now, my focus is on not overthinking, being gentle with myself and my body, and really testing my limits in preparation for next season.”
Dimitrov hopes for a pain-free week, though he knows emotions will run high. He’s set to join forces in doubles with five-time Grand Slam champion Nicolas Mahut, who is concluding his career at this tournament.
For the pair, it’s a moment filled with significance—one star returning to the ATP Tour, the other bidding farewell.
“We’ve talked about teaming up for doubles over the years, but I never found the time. This felt right—his last tournament makes it special,” Dimitrov reflected on his bond with Mahut. “We’ve shared so much history, and this is a fitting conclusion for him.”
As he embarks on his singles journey, Dimitrov faces a formidable first challenge against French powerhouse Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Still, he holds a strong 24-12 tournament record, according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index, which includes his electrifying run last year.
No matter the outcome, one thing rings clear: Grigor Dimitrov is back where he truly belongs—smiling, competing, and penning a new chapter in his illustrious career.
