“Even though I’m not the winner, I feel like one” – Grigor Dimitrov on final loss to Jannik Sinner and almost doing “too well” at Miami Open 

Despite his loss to champion Jannik Sinner, Grigor Dimitrov looked back on his incredible performance at the 2024 Miami Open.

Despite being outplayed by Sinner in the title match on Sunday, March 31, Dimitrov still managed to take home the Miami Open runner-up trophy after a one hour and 12 minute match where he was defeated 6-3, 6-1.

During the trophy ceremony, Grigor Dimitrov discussed his straight-sets defeat, saying:

“Even though that was a no match today, I’ve really learned to embrace this.”

Despite falling short in the final match against Jannik Sinner, Dimitrov had an impressive performance at the Masters 1000 event. He defeated Alejandro Tabilo and Yannick Hanfmann in his first two matches, and went on to defeat both 2021 champion Hubert Hurkacz and 2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz. In the semifinal, he outplayed Alexander Zverev to secure a spot.

“This tournament has been a difficult ride out here throughout all the years. But this year I was so determined to do well that I almost did too well,”the 32-year-old said, reflecting on his campaign.

Over the past ten months, Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov has achieved outstanding results. He has reached five finals, including the 2023 Paris Masters. Additionally, at the 2024 Brisbane International, he claimed his first victory in over six years and his ninth overall title.

As a result of his achievements, the previous World No. 3 has once again joined the top 10 rankings after a gap of over five years. On Monday, he will hold the position of World No. 9.

Grigor Dimitrov expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout the fortnight and acknowledged his heroics in Miami by saying:

“Even though I’m not the winner today, I feel like one. You guys have really embraced me a lot this year. It’s been extremely, extremely special to play in front of you.”

The winner of the 2017 ATP Finals also showed gratitude towards his coaching team for their support and stated his desire to successfully reach the finish line in the future.

“All these night matches, it’s been a long couple of weeks but I’m just very grateful, very thankful. And of course, when I look at my box, as I said, I feel like a winner. So, thank you all, love you a lot. Thank you for supporting me and hopefully I can go a step further,”he said.

Grigor Dimitrov Reflects on Facing Jannik Sinner in 2024 Miami Open Final

After the Miami Open final, Grigor Dimitrov also commended Jannik Sinner’s impressive performance and extended his congratulations to the Italian’s team.

“I’m gonna start with congratulating Jannik and his team. He’s been exceptional throughout the whole year so far. Such amazing tennis, game, and everything, so congrats to you; congrats to your team,”Grigor Dimitrov said during the trophy ceremony.

“To date, Dimitrov and Sinner have faced each other four times in professional tournaments. While Dimitrov emerged victorious in their initial encounter at the 2020 Italian Open, Sinner has dominated their subsequent three matches, including the Miami Open and Beijing Open in 2023, as well as their most recent final.”

The Bulgarian teased that although it is enjoyable to observe the 22-year-old, it is not enjoyable to compete against him.

“It’s a pleasure to watch – definitely not to play,”Dimitrov said in his speech.

As of now, Jannik Sinner holds the top spot for the most match wins on the tour with a record of 22 victories out of 23 matches in the current season. With his recent win at the Miami Open, he adds a third title to his name in 2024, following his triumphs at the Australian Open and the ATP Rotterdam. His impressive performance is expected to elevate his world ranking to a new career-best of World No. 2 by next Monday.