Grigor Dimitrov has assembled a new coaching team that includes former ATP stars David Nalbandian and Xavier Malisse, citing the shared experience and understanding between them as a key factor for their collaboration. The Bulgarian player began working with Malisse at the start of 2026, while Nalbandian officially joined his entourage earlier this month, aiming to strengthen Dimitrov’s strategy and performance on court.
Background on Changes to Dimitrov’s Team
The 34-year-old Dimitrov made these changes after splitting with longtime coaches Jamie Delgado and Dani Vallverdu, who parted ways with him following his injury recovery last season. Currently ranked 44th in the ATP Rankings after a period of injury hiatus, Dimitrov brings a wealth of experience, having won nine ATP Tour titles and reached three Grand Slam semi-finals throughout his career.
The Experience and Impact of New Coaches
Both Nalbandian and Malisse were prominent figures in men’s tennis during the 2000s and share a deep understanding of the competitive landscape that Dimitrov faces. Nalbandian, once ranked as high as world No. 3, notably reached the Wimbledon final in 2002 and secured 11 ATP titles before retiring in 2013. Similarly, Malisse achieved a career-best ranking of 19th and reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2002, where he was defeated by Nalbandian, eventually retiring in 2013 after winning three ATP titles.
Dimitrov has played against Nalbandian once and Malisse three times early in his career, fostering long-term relationships with both, which facilitated this coaching reunion.
Dimitrov’s Perspective on the Coaching Arrangements
In recent statements reported by the ATP Tour, Dimitrov explained how the connections with Nalbandian and Malisse influenced his decision to bring them in as coaches.
“I knew them separately, and it also helps when you’ve played against them a few times,”
Dimitrov said.
He continued,
“It’s nice when you can relate to someone that you have played. They have been retired for over 10 years, but it’s also not that long ago. At the beginning, when I got into conversations with them, we really started to see things similarly, and I could relate to them in terms of the timing of their careers, injuries, game plan, thoughts, and all of that.”
Dimitrov further reflected on the coaching formation:
“In a way, it happened so naturally. Right now, we are still finding our footing, because it’s very new for all of us, but things are very clear of what needs to be done and how we want to tackle the game.”
Current Form and Upcoming Matches
Dimitrov’s comeback resumed after a pectoral injury forced him to retire during his Wimbledon fourth-round match last summer against eventual champion Jannik Sinner, where Dimitrov had initially led by two sets. He made a brief appearance at the Paris Masters in November 2025 and has since returned with more intention for the 2026 season.
With a 1-3 win-loss record so far this year, Dimitrov is preparing for key performances at the Mexican Open. He will begin his campaign facing Terence Atmane and, if successful, is slated to meet rising talent Rafael Jodar in the second round, presenting an opportunity for significant victories and momentum.
