SOFIA, July 24

Russian five-time grand slam champion Maria Sharapova has split with Bulgarian boyfriend Grigor Dimitrov after a nearly three-year relationship.

“Our paths split,” the 24-year-old Dimitrov, currently No 16 in the ATP rankings, told Bulgarian media on Friday. “We experienced wonderful moments together. I wish her much happiness and success in life and in tennis,” he added. “Now I’m concentrated entirely on the game and I’m sure the results will soon be seen...This is the summer of the new beginning for me.”

Dimitrov — who climbed to No 8 in the world last year after reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals — has had a lean year and is still to reach a final. Sharapova, 28, announced that her and Dimitrov were a couple in May 2013.