“I wanted to win so I could get some cash”: Grigor Dimitrov reveals what motivated him to beat Novak Djokovic in Madrid Open 2013
ATPThursday, 25 April 2024 at 11:00
Bulgaria’s tennis star Grigor Dimitrov has revealed the motivation
behind beating Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in the Madrid Open back in 2013. The
32-year-old has a dismal record while playing at the reigning world number one
where in 13 meetings, he won just once.
Interestingly, that victory came way back in 2013 in the
Madrid Open where in the second round, he got the better of the reigning world
number one with a score of 7-6, 6-7, 6-3. Dimitrov was recently quoted in a
report where he revealed that the primary motivation to beat the 24-time Grand
Slam winner was that he did not like the hotel he was staying in and wanted to
earn some money to move to a better hotel, something that worked in favour of him
on that day.
“I remember. I came earlier to Madrid. I remember staying in
some very, very questionable hotel. And then, when I found out I had to play
him, I was like, "Okay, let's see, it's time." And I wanted to win so
I could get some cash to a different hotel. At the time, I remember that. I
like to raise my level on those occasions, and I think just against him in
particular” Grigor Dimitrov said
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
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