Dimitrov relishing spirit of the Olympics

 

Originally published on: 30/07/12 00:00

The 21-year-old Bulgarian, who bypassed Poland's Lukasz Kubot 6-3 7-6 to reach the second round, says that the Olympics has stirred a particularly positive mood amongst the players.

“Everyone has a smile when they’re playing here,” he told tennishead. “I think the whole atmosphere is really different. Everyone is more friendly for some reason – I don’t know why, but I really feel like everyone’s saying ‘Hi, what’s going on, who are you playing?’ I think it’s kind of nice. I wish all tournaments were like that.”

The world No.53, whose compatriot Tsvetana Pironokva is also through to the second round of the singles in the women’s event, is relishing the opportunity to represent his country on the court.

“It’s certainly a nice thing and it’s a privilege to come out here and have the flag on your shirt,” said the Paris resident, who will have to beat Gilles Simon for the first time in four meetings if he is to reach the third round.

But Dimitrov, who has never been beyond the second round on his visits to the All England Club for Wimbledon, admits his mind isn't just on tennis and he's hoping to catch a number of other Olympic events over the coming days.

“I really want to watch track and field and swimming,” he added. “Those are the events I really want to watch.”

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