Maria Sharapova, Grigor Dimitrov Split Update: Bulgarian Says He Now Can Focus on Tennis [VIDEO]

The breakup rumors between Maria Sharapova and Grigor Dimitrov have been confirmed. Let the speculation over what happened commence.

Dimitrov, the 24-year-old Bulgarian tennis player who is ranked No. 16 in the world, issued a statement to the media Friday on the relationship ending.

Grigor Dimitrov cheated on Maria Sharapova?

 "Our paths split. We experienced wonderful moments together. I wish her much happiness and success in life and in tennis," world No. 16 Dimitrov told Bulgarian media, according to News.com.au.

"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."

Grigor Dimitrov says he initiated relationship with Maria Sharapova via email

Dimitrov has a 22-13 record this year after reaching as high as No. 8 in the world last year. He also split from coach Roger Rasheed. It's unclear whether Dimitrov believes that any of his tennis struggles were tied to his relationship with the 28-year-old Sharapova, who is ranked No. 2 on the women's tour. Her success, however, consistently has exceeded his on the tennis court.

Reports out of Bulgaria earlier this week, however, suggested that the relationship ended when Sharapova found out that Dimitrov cheated with a Bulgarian playmate of the year, Nikoleta Lozanova, who also is 28, according to News.com.au.

The Daily Mail retold the comments Sharapova said in a May interview on their relationship that made no inference to trouble in the relationship.

She said of their bond in May: "It's nice to have someone who really understands and respects [what I do] and knows the drill.

"There are so many little variants in an athlete's career that are not always easy to explain to the outside world. So it is nice that they are aware of it and know it."

The couple had been together since at least the beginning of 2013 when they announced they were an item.

Previously, Dimitrov had been linked to Sharapova's rival Serena Williams. Sharapova was engaged to former NBA star Sasha Vujacic but also dated now-retired tennis player Andy Roddick and Maroon 5 singer Adam Levine.

Levine brought attention to their breakup when he said that Sharapova was a disappointment as a lover, the Daily Mail reported. There was no mention of anything so personal in Dimitrov's comments.

Why do you think Maria Sharapova and Grigor Dimitrov broke up? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.

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