Marin Cilic has vowed to take a ‘step-by-step’ approach to the tour following his quarter-final loss at the French Open on Thursday.
The world No.4 was edged out by Argentina’s Juan Martin del Potro, who clinched the rain-interrupted match 7-6(5), 5-7, 6-3, 7-5. Sending him into the last four at Roland Garros for the first time since 2009. As for Cilic, the Croat is left thinking what could have been after he criticised his own performance during his press-conference after the match.
“I just felt that my level could have improved 10, 20% at least.” He explained. “I was missing some balls that usually I don’t miss.”
“Yesterday it was raining on a few occasions. And then also again today it was difficult to find my rhythm.
“It was not easy. I was trying and trying and being positive, but things were not turning around.”
Despite the frustrations of the 29-year-old, there is also positives to draw from his time in Paris. This year was only the second time he managed to reach the last eight of the French Open. Furthermore, he has now reached the quarter-finals or better at four of the past five grand slam tournaments. A positive outcome for a player who was hit with a knee injury during the early part of the clay season.
“I’m glad that the knee injury is behind me. I’m feeling physically well.” Said Cilic. “I played good tennis here (at Roland Garros) and played several matches. I mean, in the end with the result-wise, it’s not bad.”
The next test for the former US Open champion will be the grass. Last year he reached only his second major final at the Wimbledon Championships. However, it was a final of heartbreak as he was blighted by a blister on his foot during a straight sets loss to Roger Federer. Asked if he could go one step further and win the title this year, Cilic was swift to play down any hype.
“The focus for the moment (is to) take it week by week, day by day, get into form. Obviously the grass court season is short, and I want to be in good form for it.” He concluded.
Out of his 17 ATP titles, Cilic has won just two of those on the grass with his most recent occurring last year in Istanbul. He will now travel to London ahead of the Fever-Tree Championships (Queen’s), which will start a week Monday. Cilic is a former champion at The Queen’s Club, claiming the title back in 2012.
