“It made me feel like a 13-year-old boy”: Carlos Alcaraz seeks revenge against Grigor Dimitrov

Carlos Alcaraz hasn’t forgotten the painful defeat against Grigor Dimitrov in the 2024 Miami Open quarterfinals, and he’s eager for revenge — this time at Indian Wells. The two-time defending champion comes into this clash after a straightforward win over Denis Shapovalov (6-2, 6-4), setting up another encounter with the Bulgarian.

Dimitrov has found a second wind in 2024, returning to the top 10 for the first time in seven years. Currently holding a spot in the top 15, he’s once again a dangerous opponent for any rival. A year ago in Miami, he stunned Alcaraz on his way to the final.

Read also

Schedule and Preview Indian Wells Open 2025 Day Eight Wednesday March 12 including Gauff-Bencic, Draper-Fritz and Dimitrov-Alcaraz

The Spaniard was on track for the Sunshine Double, riding a nine-match winning streak and fresh off his Indian Wells triumph. However, he ran into a flawless Dimitrov, who delivered one of his best performances in recent memory, dominating the then-World No. 1 with his impeccable serve.

If there were any doubts about Dimitrov’s form that week, he silenced them by taking down two other top-10 players — Hubert Hurkacz (No. 8) and Alexander Zverev (No. 4) — before falling to the nearly unstoppable Jannik Sinner in the final.

Read also

Entry List Monte-Carlo Masters 2025 including Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas

Alcaraz still remembers Dimitrov’s masterclass in Miami, admitting he was completely outplayed by the experienced Bulgarian. "He played incredible tennis in Miami last year," the current World No. 3 recalled during his latest press conference at Indian Wells.

"I couldn’t find any solutions during that match. He was in full control and dominated me quite easily. It made me feel like a 13-year-old boy,” the four-time Grand Slam champion confessed. "I told my team that we had no idea what to do. It seemed like he had no weaknesses."

Alcaraz and Dimitrov will face off on Wednesday night in the Indian Wells round of 16. Alcaraz rides a 14-match winning streak at the tournament and is chasing a historic three-peat — a feat only Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have achieved before.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe