Grigor Dimitrov equals Roger Federer’s record after latest win at the Paris Masters

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Grigor Dimitrov dodged his way through a difficult opening match against Tomas Etcheverry to achieve a new career milestone.

Last year’s Paris Masters runner-up, Grigor Dimitrov, clinched a late and ultimately decisive break to secure victory on his return to the French capital.

A win that keeps his ATP Finals hopes alive, the Bulgarian recovered from an agonizing 11-9 defeat in the first-set tie-break to claw himself into round two.

Facing Tomas Martin Etcheverry, the eighth seed fought his way to a 6-7 (9), 6-3, 7-5 win.

Both players held firm in the final set until the very last point, when Dimitrov converted a break to close out a gruelling two hours and 44 minute long match.

Grigor Dimitrov equals Roger Federer’s Paris Masters record

Seeded eight in Paris, Dimtrov was forced to deploy all his experience and guile to fend off the Argentine.

Into the second round, last year’s runner-up has key points to defend if he is to make the cut for the ATP finals in Turin.

However, with Andrey Rublev’s meltdown after a crushing first-round defeat, his prospects have been slightly bolstered.

Dimitrov’s latest victory sees him move one ahead of Rafael Nadal and join Roger Federer on 23 Paris Masters wins.

If he is to continue to pick up some results or even win the tournament outright, Dimitrov could move level with Tomas Berdych, who currently sits on 27.

The Bulgarian can move beyond Federer if he beats Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in Thursday’s fourth round tie.

Grigor Dimitrov deserves to be at the ATP finals

Dimitrov has sufficiently proven he deserves a spot at the ATP Finals with an impressive season that highlights his resilience and skill – aspects of his game that have characterised his whole career.

Starting the year strong, he captured the title in Brisbane, setting the tone for what would become a remarkable comeback season.

Despite battling through injuries and being forced to retire at Wimbledon and the US Open Dimitrov has shown his determination, playing some of his best tennis in years.

His success this season not only marks his return but also serves as a statement that he can still compete with the younger generation.

With his trademark finesse and experience, the world number nine has delivered consistent performances against top-ranked players.

While Alex de Minaur and Stefanos Tsitsipas stand in contention for the last ATP finals spots, Dimitrov deserves something to fall his way.