Tired Thiem dumped by Dimitrov

Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov produced the upset of the day at Melbourne Park today, beating No.4 seed Dominic Thiem 6-4, 6-4, 6-0 to set up a quarterfinal clash with Russian underdog Aslan Karatsev.

Thiem looked out of touch all match in a lacklustre performance compared to Dimitrov, who hit 10 aces and 25 winners on his way to an unpredicted victory.

Dominic Thiem congratulates Grigor Dimitrov on winning the match. Photo: Tennis Australia/ MORGAN HANCOCK

After his five set thriller against Nick Kyrgios on Friday, Thiem took an early 3-1 lead in the first set only to see Dimitrov hit back and take the set.

And the second set was a carbon copy as Dimitrov came from b behind to stun the Austrian again.

By the third Thiem was lost, unable to match the aggression from the Bulgarian as Dimitrov bagel led his opponent for a famous win.

“Throughout every season you have one of those matches where you just keep the ball rolling and I think today was just one of those days,” Dimitrov said.

Dominic Thiem had no answer to Grigor Dimitrov on Rod Laver Arena. Photo: Tennis Australia/ JAY TOWN

“I was entirely trying to focus on what I was doing and the game plan I had.
“He might have actually struggled with something which I don’t know, but I want to give myself credit for staying focused and composed throughout the three sets.
“He’s an unbelievable player and a great friend off the court so I’m not going to be that humble. Of course I’m very happy to be in the quarter-finals.”

Peter Rowe

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