Grigor Dimitrov recently opened up about his mental health struggles, revealing that he has experienced severe anxiety, panic attacks, and feelings of loneliness during his tennis career. Despite his successful 2024 season, which included reaching the final of the Stockholm Open, Dimitrov has been candid about his personal challenges off the court.
Dimitrov lost to Tommy Paul in the Stockholm Open final, 4-6, 3-6, but this year has still been significant for the 33-year-old. He returned to the top 10 in the world rankings for the first time since November 2018, ending a 260-week absence. Additionally, Dimitrov became the first player born in the 1990s to achieve 300 hardcourt wins during his run to the US Open quarterfinals. He also joined Daniil Medvedev as the second player born in the 1990s to reach the quarterfinals in both Grand Slam and Masters 1000 events.
His impressive performances earned him a place on the winning Europe team at the 2024 Laver Cup, and he continued his strong form by making it to the final in Stockholm. However, Dimitrov used the occasion to speak openly about his mental health, encouraging other athletes to be more transparent about their struggles.
“I had severe moments of anxiety, panic attacks,” Dimitrov shared in a press conference, emphasizing the importance of talking to others about such issues. He urged fellow tennis players to be more open, stating that speaking about mental health is not a sign of weakness but rather strength.
Despite losing his fourth ATP final of the season, Dimitrov achieved significant milestones in Stockholm, including his 100th indoor win. With 40 wins already secured this year, Dimitrov is determined to finish the season strong while advocating for mental health awareness.
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