“Very Happy That This Nickname Died”: Grigor Dimitrov Rejects Roger Federer Comparisons

Published 12/14/2021, 6:30 AM EST

Grigor Dimitrov has been one of the most popular names in the tennis world. Even as a junior, his comparisons to Roger Federer ensured that stadiums remained packed wherever he played.

Since his style of play was so similar to the Swiss Maestro, the 8-time ATP title winner was called ‘Baby Fed’. However, in the recent past, the Bulgarian made it clear that he is no longer fond of the nickname.

Dimitrov believes he is very different from Roger Federer

Article continues below this ad

In an interview with French player Alize Lim for Tennis Majors, Dimitrov talks about comparisons with Roger. According to him, the nickname ‘Baby Fed’ used to flatter him, but no longer. Not only did he begin to dislike the nickname, but he also ‘resented’ the people who used it.

Dimitrov insisted on asserting his individuality- “I’d proved myself to be a completely different player than he (Federer) is.”

When asked about the differences between himself and Roger Federer, the Bulgarian had a lot to share.“I think, first, decision-making,” he began. At times, he is way more aggressive than I am,” Dimitrov describes Roger Federer’s style of play.

Talking more about their different styles of play, he said. “I use different shots than him.” Additionally, he talks about how he feels he and Roger Federer are ‘polar’ opposites in their characters.

“He used to be a rebel from what I heard, when he was at a younger age. But for me, I think I’ve kept that for me still (in my personality),” he laughs.

“Do I look like a baby to you?”
Grigor Dimitrov not impressed as one supporter shouts ‘Come on Baby Federer’ #RG19 pic.twitter.com/YNZ1j4txij
— Eurosport UK (@Eurosport_UK) May 31, 2019

“There Won’t Be A New Big Three”: Juan Carlos Ferrero on Tennis After Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic

Article continues below this ad

Dimitrov considers Federer a great role model

Even Roger Federer expressed his wish for Dimitrov to no longer be called ‘Baby Fed’. When the two first met in 2013, Federer had told Swiss reporters, “I hope people don’t call him Baby Fed so often anymore.”

Article continues below this ad

Dimitrov gives credit where due, though. “All in all, I think he is a great role model,” However, individuality is important, too, for him. “We’re only one of a kind on earth.”

All You Need To Know About Rafael Nadal And Dominic Thiem’s Comeback Event, The Mubadala World Tennis Championship

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Samarveer Singh is a tennis writer at EssentiallySports. Holding a degree in English Literature and a diploma in Fitness Sciences and Training, Samarveer is obsessed with tennis and basketball. A collegiate athlete himself, he admires all sportspersons who put in the work in order to achieve excellence.

“Very Happy That This Nickname Died”: Grigor Dimitrov Rejects Roger Federer Comparisons

Dimitrov believes he is very different from Roger Federer

Trending

‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff

Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Gushes Over Her Pink Attire as Part of Nike’s Latest Endeavor

Darwin Blanch: How Father’s Relentless Efforts for His Brother Ended up Becoming a Boon for Rafael Nadal’s Opponent

Where Is Venus and Serena Williams’ Father ‘King’ Richard Now? Everything to Know about His Whereabouts

Do Darwin Blanch’s Siblings Play Tennis? Everything to Know About the Young American’s Power-Packed Family

Dimitrov considers Federer a great role model