Fifth-ranked Juan Martin Del Potro said that he is ready to claim his place in the “Big Four” in men’s tennis as he has what it takes to challenge them. The “Big Four” is composed of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray who have been dominating the men’s game in the past decade. However, Del Potro has valid claims – after all, he had won the US Open back in 2009 and defeated Nadal and Federer on the way to the title.
“They are so good during every tournament and they are regular in the important tournaments. They reach semi-finals and finals in every Grand Slam,” the Argentine said.
“I was close to reaching the final in Wimbledon but it wasn’t enough to win there. I have to be ready for the moment, like I was in 2009 when I beat Rafa [Nadal] and Federer in semis and finals. I was ready for the moment and I think I’ve been training hard trying to find that moment. I think I’m ready to keep fighting with them in the grand slam but they are still so good and the biggest favorites,” he added.
Del Potro said that this year would be the perfect opportunity to improve his ranking. He ended 2013 ranked fifth in the world.
“I’m in the top five after three years and a half, and I see a good opportunity to keep improving my ranking, but I also feel a little difference between the top guys and the rest and me. I’m looking forward to playing most tournaments healthy. That could be my biggest goal for this year,” he said.
