What a match! 🎾 Grigor Dimitrov, Bulgaria's tennis maestro, just delivered an unforgettable performance at the U.S. Open, outlasting Russia's Andrey Rublev in a gripping five-set battle to punch his ticket to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2019.
The ninth seed Dimitrov took an early lead, claiming the first two sets 6-3 and 7-6(3). But Rublev, the sixth seed, wasn't going down without a fight. He stormed back, dominating the next two sets 6-1 and 6-3, leveling the match and setting the stage for an electrifying finale. ⚡️
The tension on Arthur Ashe Stadium was palpable, with the crowd—including tennis legend Serena Williams enjoying a honey deuce cocktail—on the edge of their seats. Dimitrov kept his cool, though, firing 17 aces and winning 80% of his first-serve points. His resilience paid off as he clinched the fifth set 6-3, sealing the match after an intense 3 hours and 17 minutes of play.
\"The steal of the second set really helped me keep believing,\" Dimitrov shared after the match. \"He started playing amazing, so I had to pull the reins back and wait for my opportunity. It happened in the fifth, and I ran with it.\"
Rublev's frustration was visible throughout the match. At one point, he slammed his racket against the court and even injured his wrist in the process, requiring medical attention. The fiery Russian couldn't contain his emotions as the momentum swung in Dimitrov's favor. 🔥
This victory is huge for Dimitrov, marking a significant step forward in his quest for Grand Slam glory. The fans are buzzing, and so are we! Can't wait to see what's next for him in the tournament. 🙌
Reference(s):
Dimitrov outlasts Rublev to punch U.S. Open quarterfinals ticket
cgtn.com
