Grigor
Dimitrov played an exhibition match with Novak Djokovic in Sofia, Bulgaria,
where both joked by taking off their shirts and dancing in front of the fans.
After Tuesday’s exhibition, Dimitrov traveled to Berlin to play the Laver Cup
for the second time.
Djokovic and Dimitrov share laughs in Sofia
The world
No. 10 defeated Nole 6-4, 2-6 [10-6] in the exhibition benefiting the Grigor
Dimitrov Foundation. From the promotional activities, it was all jokes between
the Bulgarian and the Serb, as they entered the court wearing matching
customized denim jackets.
Once on the
court, they didn’t just take off their jackets, as the 24-time Grand Slam
champion started joking by doing a ‘striptease’, taking off his shirt and
waving it in the air while dancing to the music. Djokovic encouraged Dimitrov
to follow suit, and eventually, the Bulgarian was also shirtless.
After the
match, played on the night of Tuesday, September 17, Dimitrov had another event
to attend: the Laver Cup, where he was one of the last confirmed players
following Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal. Dimitrov will debut on Friday in the night
session against Chilean Alejandro Tabilo in the third match of the first day.
During
Thursday’s press conference in Berlin, the 32-year-old was asked about the
striptease he did with Djokovic in the Sofia exhibition: “I was hoping you’re
not going to mention that one,” Dimitrov laughed. “I’ll let the boys decide on
that, whatever they want me to do. No, we had a great time with Novak.”
At that
moment, Alexander Zverev joined the conversation with a suggestion: “(If) we
win, Grigor gets naked, just for the female fans. And for Bjorn (Borg).”
“Shirt off
is fine,” Dimitrov smiled. “No, no, we had a great time with Novak. Honestly,
he was such a great sport for that. Just truly happy to be able to establish my
foundation in such a way clearly.
“Yeah, you
know, times like these are also about that, about the enjoyment, something that
is, you know, worth it and means something to you. Now I’m on the team with
these fellas over here, so I guess whatever I promise, I need to deliver. So
I better be careful," he concluded.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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