Grigor Dimitrov shares his most important tip for starting the day off right

VIENNA—For seven years running, Grigor Dimitrov has opted to play the Erste Bank Open. It’s here in Vienna where the Bulgarian constantly finds his chi—the clean air, a good cup of joe and romantic architecture that captivates the eye, all contributing to the ideal energy.

“The city is great, so much history. I love the chance to go out and walk. It’s a very homey event and I like the feeling of that,” he told TENNIS.com in an exclusive interview.

“I've developed a very good relationship with the tournament as well. Everyone here is so kind. They look after us in the best way possible. Herwig [Straka] as a tournament director is doing such a great job.”

Looking to keep the train running at this week’s ATP 500 event, Dimitrov began his title quest with a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Zhang Zhizhen. Next up is Zhang's doubles partner in Vienna, 27th-ranked Tomas Machac.

After a groin injury stalled his US Open bid in the quarterfinals of the season’s final Grand Slam event, his Asian swing was then limited to an appearance in Shanghai. Building back up in Stockholm, Dimitrov played four matches over four days as fellow Turin hopeful Tommy Paul ultimately emerged victorious.

“It’s a long year. It's a tough year. It’s a grueling year,” he says. “Everybody is playing well and the competition is furious. To be able at this day and age to do that on such a level is something that I'm very appreciative for.”

No one wakes up feeling their best 100 percent of the time. It’s inevitable, but locating one’s chi can go a long way. For the three-time Grand Slam semifinalist, breathing exercises and moving the body are vital to starting his day off right. A cup of coffee is “an absolute must,” too, as is interacting with family and getting outside when possible.

Dimitrov trusts there are different strokes for different folks to achieve this, except for one universal condition.

“Find your balance early on just for yourself. No phone. That’s my biggest suggestion. No phone.”

Acknowledging self-care has seemingly paid off in more ways than one for Dimitrov. In a 2024 season that is sure to see him nominated for ATP Comeback Player of the Year, Dimitrov is in the running to qualify for Turin at No. 10 in the race coming into this week. He last appeared at the Nitto ATP Finals in 2017, when the Haskovo native lifted the biggest trophy of his career.