ATP: Marin Cilic targets number 1

Australian Open finalist Marin Cilic has great plans for 2018: The Croatian wants to climb the tennis throne and triumph in a Grand Slam tournament.

Almost 5000 points separate Marin Cilic from the place in the sun at the moment. Behind Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, the 29-year-old occupies third place in the world rankings. However, Cilic is far from being satisfied with the highest ranking of his career.

“I feel great, it’s been going great over the last few months,”said the 1.98-meter-hen after his strong performances in Melbourne. In the “Happy Slam”, the US Open winner of 2014 beat Spain’s injured industry leader in the quarter-finals.

In the final, Cilic’s opponent was in top form. However, defending champion Roger Federer had to call up everything in an exciting five-part hit to put the rebellious Croats in their place.

The dream of a second Grand Slam triumph has yet to come true for “Chila” this season. He’s also not deterred by the gap to the top duo:”I think I can attack the number one this year.”

Cilic relies on the age bonus – especially towards Federer, who turns 37 in August:”I can’t imagine that Roger wants to reach first place by any means. At some tournaments, he’ll take it easy – and this is my chance.”