First Round Stella Artois Interview

Posted by nic on June 09, 1998 at 14:40:42:

Here's what Goran said after his match today. I hope you lot appreciate it as I've got a lot of stick from my family, who think I'm mad for sitting copying everything Goran says!!!

"I surprised myself from the beginning and I played one bad game. It was a good match, everytime I had break points on his serve..he had only 1 or 2 on mine and he broke me once, but I am happy the way I played"

IS THIS A PART OF THE SEASON YOU'D LIKE TO GET BACK INTO THE TOP 20?

"Yes, it was a very tough season for me. I didn't play very well, only won 1 tournament in Split and my Grand Slams continue to be bad. I mean, I've only won 1 round last year at Wimbledon. So usually I never play good here, except last year when I played the final. I mean Wimbledon is the tournament I can win and I always hope I can win. It doesn't matter how I play. It is important to pass the first week, then anything is possible. I am always hoping. I mean, now I am playing better. I am not in the greatest form, I always am hoping I can win, but there is 2 weeks to go and I think I can be ready"

WHAT WERE YOU MOST PLEASED ABOUT IN YOUR GAME TODAY. WAS IT THE SERVING OR THE RETURN?

"Return. I return very good today. It was very windy and tough to serve and very tough to volley, but I think it's getting there. I think in 2 weeks....but it's nothing, I mean last year I played good here and lost to Norman at Wimbledon, so it doesn't matter. I just have to put my mind that I can win and I have to believe and anything is possible"

IS THAT THE GREATEST STRUGGLE FOR YOU THE MIND GAME?

"Not now, no. I've passed all the bad times. It doesn't matter, I am 24 (I think he meant 26!!!!! - nic) and I've been through bad times last 6 months, but I'm happy to play, happy to be on court and I'm looking forward to next match and I need matches to win"

you said it goran. Positive attitude - great!!