World number five Juan Martin Del Potro thinks he’s playing better tennis at this point compared to the previous years.
“I think I’m playing even better than many years ago,” said del Potro on Sunday after he was defeated in the final of the Shanghai Masters by defending champion Novak Djokovic in a thrilling three-set match.
“I couldn’t win a Grand Slam [title] like I did in 2009 [at the US Open], but I reached finals in the [ATP World Tour] Masters 1000s. I have already won three tournaments [and] I beat the top guys, which is fantastic for me,” he said.
“I think I’m playing even better than 2009 or 2008 or last year. That’s important [and] a good thing for the future. I still have the same goal, which is [to] get closer to the top guys. If I still work like this, I hope I can be there one day,” he added.
Del Potro was enjoying an eight-match win streak but ended on Sunday in Shanghai. The Argentine won the Japan Open title last weekend.
“I believe in myself [and] I’m very confident,” said del Potro. “I’m very pleased with my level. I think if I’m healthy and if I play like today or yesterday [versus Rafael Nadal], I will have the chance to play good battles like we did today.
“I love this sport. I love playing these kind of matches, even if I lose.”
Del Potro is already assured a place at next month’s ATP World Tour Finals by virtue of reaching the Shanghai Masters final.
“I’m so excited to be there. I said before, it’s a fantastic tournament. I’m going to be part of eight players fighting for the same goal. I think it’s like a gift for me because I did so well this season.”
“I think it’s a big chance to close a fantastic year.”
