A year after a devastating injury brought his Wimbledon run to an abrupt end, Grigor Dimitrov returned to the fourth round with a hard-fought 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 5-7, 6-3 win over Matteo Berrettini on Saturday, giving him a chance to rewrite the chapter in which his dream previously collapsed.

Dimitrov had suffered a pectoral tear while leading eventual champion Jannik Sinner by two sets to love in last year’s round of 16, forcing him to retire in tears. Twelve months on, the 35-year-old wildcard battled his way back into the second week by overcoming 2021 finalist Berrettini in an epic contest.

Speaking on court after the match, Dimitrov reflected on his journey: “I think after last year, the way I exited, I would have never known what would have happened, but guess what? This year I’m back here and I’m able to rewrite everything again.”

He added: “I’m just trying to be completely honest and vulnerable in front of you guys. I’m just trying. It’s not about winning or losing. It’s about overcoming every obstacle in front of me, staying in the present moment and enjoying moments like this.”

“I repeated that more than a thousand times during the match today. It’s not often you get to play here, and I don’t know how many more times I’ll be able to do it, so I might as well make the most of it.”

After dominating the opening two sets on Centre Court, Grigor Dimitrov was forced into a tougher battle as Matteo Berrettini responded strongly to take the third set and shift momentum.

The decision to close the roof, which resulted in a 15-minute interruption, appeared to disrupt Dimitrov’s rhythm further, and the Italian capitalised by levelling the match after also claiming the fourth set.

However, Dimitrov raised his level in the deciding set, breaking for a 3-1 lead with a stunning one-handed backhand down the line that electrified the crowd.

From there, the Bulgarian regained control, easing away to seal the victory with a comfortable hold of serve. He will now face Britain’s Arthur Fery in the fourth round.

Speaking afterwards, Dimitrov said: “I’m just looking forward to coming back and competing again. It’s wonderful to be in the second week, and let’s keep the good times rolling.”