Wimbledon pain a motivation for Cilic in Melbourne final

A painful Wimbledon loss can be a cause for motivation in the Australian Open final, says Marin Cilic.

Published : Jan 26, 2018 05:17 IST

Marin Cilic celebrates in Melbourne
Marin Cilic celebrates in Melbourne
lightbox-info

Marin Cilic celebrates in Melbourne

Marin Cilic says his Wimbledon heartbreak can be a motivating factor when he goes for glory in Sunday's Australian Open final.

The Croatian defeated Kyle Edmund in straight sets on Thursday to book his place in the Melbourne showpiece, marking his third career grand slam final.

Cilic capitulated at SW19 against Roger Federer, a potential opponent on Sunday, and was reduced to tears after struggling with blisters in the painful defeat.

The 29-year-old says there are two ways to view that tournament and he hopes to channel his disappointment to win a second career slam.

"In one way, I had to experience it as one amazing experience in a final and one not so amazing," he told a news conference. 

"I had both emotionally great and not great [feelings]. I think it's going to help me to stay focused on what I have to do. 

"You know, now I have two days off. It's slightly different of the routine that I had during all the tournament, but I have to stay focused mentally and to be ready from the first point on the final. 

"It's big motivation for me to play that final and obviously to win, and I'm feeling really good with my game, and so hopefully I can have a great match and also great energy on the court."

Federer remains in the hunt for a 20th grand slam, but first must get past up-and-comer Hyeon Chung.

And Cilic insists it will not be a case of seeking retribution should Federer make the final. 

"I'm not looking at it as a revenge. I mean, it was on me that I couldn't give my best in Wimbledon and that happens," he added.

"With Rafa [Nadal, who retired in the quarters against Cilic] towards the end of the match, and even I think with Kyle, I think he had either a small injury or fatigue, I had no idea, towards the end of the match. 

"Those things happen. I mean, it's that kind of a sport. But for me it's great to again be in the final, giving myself another opportunity to win a grand slam. 

"I'm playing very good tennis, and definitely very excited for the rest of 2018."

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment