The negative feelings could finally be behind him: Marin Cilic has won an ATP title again almost three years after the last time. The Croatian tennis player triumphed in Hangzhou, beating hometown idol Zhizhen Zhang thanks to two tie-breaks.
For Cilic, this is a success with a special flavor, considering the many months spent - due to the continuous problems with his knee - working hard to have the chance to return to doing what he loves most. And in the post-match press conference, the Croatian thanked those who were close to him during this difficult period.
"I want to thank my family, my boys and my wife. Everyone who has been there for me in a difficult period. They worked with me day after day, motivating me and giving me the strength and spirit to move forward. I am so happy and proud to have won not only for myself but also for them. It has been a difficult period for me in the last few months. I have lost my ranking and have not played much. So I say a big thank you to the tournament organizers for giving me this opportunity with a wild card," he analyzed.
The Croatian finally dedicated a thought to his opponent: "It was a great week for you, Zhizhen. I hope you will continue to play great tennis in China and at the tournaments in Beijing and Shanghai."
Cilic set a new record - especially considering the results achieved during his incredible career. The Croatian in fact became the lowest-ranked player (777) to win an ATP title. In second place is now Lleyton Hewitt, who won in Adelaide in 1998 as world number 550.
