19 December 2025
Grigor Dimitrov is entering a new phase of his career with a change in his coaching team. Xavier Malisse has been appointed as the Bulgarian star’s new main coach ahead of the upcoming season.
The 45-year-old Belgian enjoyed a successful playing career, reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 19 before retiring from professional tennis in 2020 and transitioning fully into coaching.
Interestingly, Dimitrov and Malisse share history on court as former opponents. They faced each other three times on the ATP Tour between 2012 and 2013, with Dimitrov holding a 2–1 head-to-head advantage.
Malisse has already made his mark as a coach, most notably during his work with Alexei Popyrin, whom he guided to a Cincinnati Masters title and a place inside the world’s top 25.
Dimitrov and Malisse have already begun working together and are currently preparing for the new season in Dubai. The Bulgarian’s long-time support team remains intact, including physiotherapist Mark Bender and strength and conditioning coach Yutaka Nakamura.
Dimitrov’s season is set to begin at the ATP 250 tournament in Brisbane, an event where he is a two-time champion and has enjoyed considerable success in the past.
The 45-year-old Belgian enjoyed a successful playing career, reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 19 before retiring from professional tennis in 2020 and transitioning fully into coaching.
Interestingly, Dimitrov and Malisse share history on court as former opponents. They faced each other three times on the ATP Tour between 2012 and 2013, with Dimitrov holding a 2–1 head-to-head advantage.
Malisse has already made his mark as a coach, most notably during his work with Alexei Popyrin, whom he guided to a Cincinnati Masters title and a place inside the world’s top 25.
Dimitrov and Malisse have already begun working together and are currently preparing for the new season in Dubai. The Bulgarian’s long-time support team remains intact, including physiotherapist Mark Bender and strength and conditioning coach Yutaka Nakamura.
Dimitrov’s season is set to begin at the ATP 250 tournament in Brisbane, an event where he is a two-time champion and has enjoyed considerable success in the past.
