“I Don’t Want To Get Into Why It Didn’t Work Out!”: How Grigor Dimitrov Converted Ugly Breakup Into Lifelong Friendship With Serena Williams

Grigor Dimitrov has always been just as popular off-court as he has been on it. One of his most private relationships was with the biggest women’s tennis star at the time, i.e. Serena Williams.  It is alleged that Dimitrov was dating Williams during a brief period in 2010, before getting into a long-term relationship with Maria Sharapova.

While both Dimitrov and Williams have never spoken about it in public, their close acquaintances have confirmed it over the years. According to an article on ESPN by LZ Granderson, Williams called Dimitrov as a ‘guy with a black heart’ during her chat with Venus Williams. However, Maria Sharapova did not let that comment slide and hit back at Williams over her personal failed marriage. The Sharapova-Williams rivalry dominated the women’s tennis for almost six years and Grigor Dimitrov was a sub-plot in it.

Despite having been called a ‘guy with a black heart’, Dimitrov refused to engage in a battle of words with Williams and played down the situation. The Bulgarian admitted that he did not want to get into his private relationship with Williams. However, Dimitrov admitted that he learned a lot from his failed relationship with the American. He further added that he holds no ill feelings regarding Williams and wished her all the best.

“I don’t think Serena meant that in the way people think. She knows I’m not a bad person. Things just didn’t — I don’t know, they didn’t work out. I learned a lot from that relationship. I don’t want to get into why it didn’t work out; that’s private. But I will say that I don’t hold any ill feelings toward her and I wish her nothing but happiness.”

This one large-hearted gesture from Grigor Dimitrov played a big role in him going on to have a strong bond with both Serena Williams and Venus Williams.

Serena Williams spotted cheering for Grigor Dimitrov in Miami

Serena Williams was recently spotted at the Miami Open men’s semi-final. The American star was seen watching the Grigor Dimitrov vs Alexander Zverev match during the tournament. After the match, Dimitrov and Williams were engaged in a brief chat and were seen smiling at each other. The duo even shared a big hug after Williams congratulated the Bulgarian.

Serena Williams hugging Grigor Dimitrov after his win.

Friends forever.

pic.twitter.com/2mOUeYVtSV

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 30, 2024

Williams and Dimitrov have been close friends in recent times. Williams even put out a post on her Instagram account congratulating Dimitrov after his Brisbane triumph. The American surprisingly called Dimitrov her ‘brother’ in the story and congratulated him for his success. Now, the American will be rooting for Dimitrov again in his final against Jannik Sinner.

Serena Williams is happy for Grigor Dimitrov pic.twitter.com/Bq5OFJY943

— Mario Boccardi (@marioboc17) January 8, 2024