Grigor Dimitrov parts ways with long-time coach ahead of 2026 season
NewsThursday, 18 December 2025 at 20:52
Grigor Dimitrov will start the 2026 season without his long-time coach, Daniel Vallverdu, with whom he parted ways after spending a total of eight years together.
This off-season turned into an off-season of ending partnerships, as after Carlos Alcaraz's split with Juan Carlos Ferrero, Dimitrov parted ways with Vallverdu.
The two first started working together in 2016, that was the season before Dimitrov won the Cincinnati Open and the ATP Finals, ending the year as the world No. 3 player. But their partnership ended in May 2019 after a few unsuccessful events.
The Bulgarian player then worked with Christian Groh and Dante Bottini, but returned to Vallverdu in 2022 after the Venezuelan coach split with Stan Wawrinka, who was one of the multiple Grand Slam champions he had worked with, as he was also part of the teams for Andy Murray and Juan Martin del Potro.
Now, for the second time, Dimitrov and Vallverdu ended their partnership. The 34-year-old player announced the decision through his social media profiles, thanking Vallverdu for the time spent together.
"Eight years! It's been an incredible journey with you on and off the court. Grateful for the lessons, the laughs, and the memories we've shared. Thank you for believing in me and pushing me to be my best. You'll always be part of my story. Wishing you all the best in your next adventure!"
Vallverdu was quick to respond and post his own short statement. He obviously wished Dimitrov all the best, hoping to see him succeed again, which made it clear that the two parted on good terms.
"It was a pleasure pepe - all of it. I thank you for the opportunity and the trust. Wishing you all the very best for what's to come. Keep on pushing."
What's next for Grigor Dimitrov after parting ways with his coach?
One reason for the split could have been that Dimitrov couldn't play as much as he would have liked in 2025. The Bulgarian player was able to display a very high level when he competed, even leading 2-0 against Jannik Sinner at the Wimbledon Championships, but like in that match, injuries have kept him away from the courts.
In fact, Dimitrov has now retired from the last five majors he has played, and with what's to come in the 2026 season uncertain, it wouldn't be surprising if the Bulgarian player let Vallverdu pursue other projects.
As for Dimitrov, he might soon start looking for his last dance, one last great success before hanging up his racket. He has proven multiple times that he still has the level necessary, but his body might not be as strong as it once used to be, at the end of the day, a problem that many of his peers struggle with.
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