Dani Vallverdu was the key of Grigor Dimitrov's 2016 season and probably career too. The Bulgarian tennis player came back in the high positions of the ATP Rankings after that only six months ago was around the top 40. Interviewed by L'Equipe, Vallverdu stressed how Dimitrov's work ethic was very important to start improving.
'Above all, Grigor is a hard worker', Vallverdu said. 'Since we've been together, he's invested a lot. I'm very satisfied with his way of getting involved. I don't need to push him. He's understood that if you put everything on the table, getting results is easier. He's someone who got into the top 10 despite the weight of expectations. Perhaps he didn't do everything afterwards to succeed, which is more difficult. It's part of his apprenticeship.
'I've had the chance to work with Murray and Berdych, who are surely among the players who work hardest on the tour. I know the professionalism that's necessary to stay at the top, and I could transfer my knowledge to Grigor. It was well accepted; he was very receptive.'
Vallverdu spoke also about Dimitrov's biggest weapons: the serve, forehand and his footwork. 'If he can manage to maximise them all the time, he'll be dangerous for everyone with his aggressive play. And with his ability to move, he could also have a good defensive game. Combining those things, he's very strong.
