Unfazed With Tennis Star, Grigor Dimitrov Eyes $ 500 Million Industry to Fulfill Childhood Dream…

**Unfazed by Tennis Fame, Grigor Dimitrov Sets Sights on $500 Million Industry to Fulfill Childhood Dream**

*Miami, Florida* — Grigor Dimitrov, the Bulgarian tennis star known for his graceful style on the court and his impressive career on the ATP tour, is turning his focus to an entirely new pursuit: a burgeoning industry valued at over $500 million. The 33-year-old, who has held his own against some of the biggest names in tennis — including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic — is now setting his sights on the world of esports and gaming.

In an exclusive interview with *Forbes*, Dimitrov revealed that he has been investing heavily in esports as part of a personal mission to fulfill a childhood dream that has long been close to his heart. While most people associate Dimitrov with his world-class tennis skills and an impressive career that includes victories at the 2017 ATP Finals and the 2014 Wimbledon semifinals, the tennis star’s ambitions extend far beyond the tennis court.

### From the Court to the Console: A Dream Realized

Dimitrov, who has been ranked as high as No. 3 in the world, has always been a keen video game enthusiast. Growing up in the small town of Haskovo, Bulgaria, Dimitrov was an avid gamer long before he became a professional tennis player. “When I was a kid, I didn’t have access to the things I do now. But video games were always a way for me to escape, to challenge myself, and to dream bigger,” he said. “It’s something that always brought me joy, and I still enjoy it today. Now, as an adult, I see how much the gaming industry has grown, and I want to be part of it.”

In recent years, esports has emerged as a global phenomenon, with tournaments drawing millions of viewers and players earning multi-million-dollar sponsorships, prize pools, and brand deals. The industry’s explosive growth is expected to reach a total market value of over $500 million by 2025. Dimitrov, who has long had a keen interest in technology and innovation, sees an opportunity not just to invest in the industry but to be an active participant in its evolution.

“I’m not just here as an investor. I want to be part of something transformative,” Dimitrov said. “Esports is the future, and I think it’s more than just games. It’s about creating a community, building relationships, and connecting with people from all over the world. I want to help shape that experience, not just watch it from the sidelines.”

### A New Venture: Dimitrov’s Investment in Esports

Dimitrov’s first foray into the gaming industry came through a series of strategic investments in esports organizations and platforms. In 2023, he invested an undisclosed sum in *Xcel Esports*, a rising esports team based in the U.S. that competes in games like *League of Legends*, *Fortnite*, and *Valorant*. His investment was part of a broader initiative to support emerging esports talent and help expand the brand’s reach across Europe.

In addition to financial backing, Dimitrov is working with gaming companies to develop his own gaming content and potential partnerships with gaming hardware brands. His goal is to bridge the worlds of sports and gaming by creating cross-industry collaborations that appeal to both athletes and gamers. Dimitrov’s vision includes creating immersive fan experiences that allow gaming and sports enthusiasts to engage with both the world of esports and traditional sports.

“I believe there’s a natural crossover between the two industries,” Dimitrov explained. “In sports, we talk about strategy, focus, and precision — and those same qualities are required in esports. They’re not as different as some might think. It’s about competing, whether it’s in front of a crowd or in front of a screen. I see so many parallels, and I want to help elevate esports the same way athletes like myself elevate their sports.”

Dimitrov’s reputation as a professional athlete lends credibility to his esports ventures, particularly as the lines between traditional sports and gaming continue to blur. Many professional athletes, including former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal and football legend David Beckham, have also made significant investments in esports in recent years, recognizing its potential for growth and profitability.

### A Childhood Dream, Now Reality

For Dimitrov, his venture into the esports industry isn’t just about business. It’s a deeply personal pursuit tied to his childhood dreams. As a young boy in Bulgaria, Dimitrov often imagined what it would be like to combine his love for gaming with his athletic ambitions. While his path ultimately led him to tennis, his passion for gaming has never waned.

“I wanted to be a part of something big when I was young, and I always believed that if I worked hard enough, I could achieve it. I didn’t know it would be in tennis, but I did it,” he said. “Now, I have the chance to do it again in a completely different world. Esports offers that same kind of challenge. It’s exciting, and it’s a way for me to keep pushing boundaries.”

Dimitrov’s goal is to create a sustainable esports organization that not only competes at the highest level but also serves as a platform for young gamers to develop their skills and achieve success in the same way he did as a tennis player. By supporting players and streamers, hosting tournaments, and collaborating with gaming tech brands, Dimitrov hopes to help shape the future of esports in a way that gives back to the community.

### What’s Next for Grigor Dimitrov?

Dimitrov’s move into the esports industry is just the beginning of what could become one of the most exciting and diverse second careers in sports. His ambition and entrepreneurial spirit are clear, and as he steps away from the pressures of professional tennis, Dimitrov’s commitment to innovation will likely open new doors for him and for the gaming world.

While he has not announced a formal retirement from tennis, Dimitrov’s recent actions suggest that he is shifting his focus toward his investments and business ventures. “Tennis will always be a part of who I am, but I’m excited about what’s next,” he said. “I’ve always been someone who loves to challenge myself, and this is another challenge that excites me. I’m just getting started.”

As esports continues to grow at a rapid pace, it’s clear that Grigor Dimitrov, with his unique blend of athleticism, business acumen, and passion for gaming, is positioning himself to be a major player in the industry for years to come. Whether on the court or in the gaming world, Dimitrov’s quest to fulfill his childhood dream of being part of something bigger looks set to become a reality.