Ivo Bratanov defeated Milen Velev 3-6 6-3 6-4 in the Bulgaria 1 3 round of 16 on clay. The upset overturned the form book — Milen Velev came in leading the head-to-head 3–0. Ivo Bratanov claimed a first win over Milen Velev in four meetings, narrowing the head-to-head to 3–1.
| Date | Tournament | Round | Surface | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001-04-23 | Bulgaria 2 | R16 | clay | Milen Velev | 6-3 6-3 |
| 2001-04-23 | Bulgaria 4 | SF | clay | Milen Velev | 6-4 6-3 |
| 1998-06-15 | Macedonia F1 | QF | clay | Milen Velev | 6-1 6-2 |