Dimitrov Declares Accomplished Return to Action, Outlines 2026 Plans & Emotional Mahut Partnership in Paris
PARIS, FRANCE – Grigor dimitrov marked a successful return to competitive tennis at the Paris Masters, expressing satisfaction with his opening match after a three-month layoff due to injury. The Bulgarian is using the tournament not only as a springboard back into form but also as a testing ground for a thorough overhaul of his planning and team structure ahead of the 2026 season.
Dimitrov is focused on a complete reset, stating, “This period is also a very good test for me, especially for next year. I have to reshuffle literally everything from the way I’m preparing to the team, to the tournaments I play. so, it’s a definitely a new beginning.” He acknowledged the challenge of his first match back, but remained optimistic: ”Even today was definitely not an easy first match after three months, but I was able to do what I had to do.”
The new La Defense Arena presented minor adjustments, according to Dimitrov. “They’re not far off from before – the speed of the court is kind of the same. Obviously, the balls are a little bit different. But it’s also new conditions here as you can hear the noise from court one and two. So that is a little bit of an issue, for some players.” He is now looking ahead to a potential second-round clash with Daniil Medvedev, calling it “the type of match that I want to play coming back.”
Beyond singles, Dimitrov highlighted the special significance of partnering with French veteran Nicolas Mahut in doubles. Mahut, a five-time Grand Slam doubles champion who held the world No. 1 ranking for 39 weeks, will be playing in his final tournament. “We go a long way back and we’ve known each other for a tremendous amount of time,” Dimitrov shared. “For me honestly, it’s just an emotional moment to play with him in the last tournament and at home. I love playing doubles and I just love playing doubles with him.”
Dimitrov emphasized their complementary games, noting, “We have a similar game, so that also helps me a lot to be freer on the court.” He added, “He’s thrilled. I know that. He was already texting me! It creates a great atmosphere, and I just really hope that I’m in full shape tomorrow for him, so I can perform.” He concluded with high praise for Mahut, stating, “He always plays well… He’s a great guy. He cares a lot. He loves the sport. It’s admirable, and it’s been a great career for him, and now I think just on to the next chapter.” Dimitrov and Mahut will face Hugo Nys and Eduoard Roger-vasselin in their doubles match.
