Video: Grigor Dimitrov jumps net to check on opponent Kyle Edmund in incredible display of sportsmanship
What's the story?
Bulgarian tennis star Grigor Dimitrov displayed supreme sportsmanship during his quarter-final clash against Briton Kyle Edmund as he jumped the net and came to his aid after Edmund fell during the third set at the Brisbane International.
In case you didn't know...
Dimitrov, who is the current ATP World no. 3 ranked player, was the top seed at the Brisbane International, which began on December 31.
The heart of the matter
During a tightly contested quarter-final of the Brisbane International between Dimitrov and Edmund, the later fell down heavily on the court grimacing in pain in the third set with the score tied at 4-4. The Bulgarian Dimitrov rushed to support his opponent after jumping over the centre net barrier and helped his opponent.
The Bulgarian showed great sportsman spirit as he helped his opponent to his bench as he writhed in pain at the baseline.
The ATP World No. 50 Kyle Edmund bravely returned to play the final set although he lost the final two games. Dimitrov won 6-4, 6-7 (3-7), 6-4 to set up a semifinal against Aussie Nick Kyrgios.
At the end of the day, health above all (matters). It’s very unfortunate what happened,” Dimitrov said of Edmund’s injury. “I’ve seen this too many times. I know the feeling. I really hope he gets better," he added.
What's next?
Dimitrov faced off against Nick Kyrgios in the semifinal of the Brisbane International but went down 3-6 6-1 6-4 against the World No. 21-ranked Australian.
Author's take
In today's competitive sporting world, the gesture shown by the Bulgarian is a highly positive sign. It was quite heartwarming to see him go out of his way to help his opponent and it shows why he is respected and loved by fans across the world.