'Having someone to admire is incredible' - Rising Bulgarian star Ivan Ivanov on being compared to compatriot Grigor Dimitrov

A bright young tennis star might be soon be the new face of a nation, as Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov enters the twilight of his career. Compatriot Ivan Ivanov is slowly finding his footing on the ATP Tour, with hopes of achieving the same success as the fan-favorite veteran.

The 16-year old has already left his mark on the junior circuit. Ivanov won the 2025 US Open boys' singles title, becoming just the 10th player in tennis history to win Wimbledon and US Open in the same year, similar to his role model, Dimitrov.

Ivanov's talent has not gone unnoticed, as the youngster trains at the prestigious Rafa Nadal academy in Mallorca. He recalls being invited to the facility, where he must have left a good impression as he was offered a contract soon afterwards.

"It was before Les Petits As when the academy invited me for a trial period," said Ivanov. "I just tried it out there. I really enjoy playing there. I liked it a lot, so I stayed. Then we signed the contract and reached an agreement, so I have been there for about four years now."

Following Dimitrov's footsteps is a dream come true, says Ivanov

Seeded 1st at the US Open juniors event, Ivanov faced compatriot Alexander Vasilev, on Bulgaria's unification day no less. The court was filled with Bulgarian flags for the tie on September 6, which Ivanov stated was an honor for both himself and his opponent.

After his victory over Vasilev, the comparisons between Dimitrov and Ivanov began as both had won two significant Grand Slam events as juniors in the same year. However, Ivanov prefers to focus on what Dimitrov means to Bulgaria, while expressing his admiration for the former World No.3.

"Having an example like him in Bulgaria and having someone to admire is incredible," said the 16-year old. "I mean, many countries with a similar population to ours do not have someone like him. We are lucky to have him. I am very happy that, even though we have not spoken, nor played together, nor trained together, he brings me many positive things, many things that I can learn from him and positive examples."

Ivanov will make his Davis Cup debut for Bulgaria this weekend, when they take on Finland from September 13-14.