Juan Martin Del Potro serves warning to rivals

Shanghai: Argentina’s Juan Martin del Potro feels that he can only get better with time. After getting the better of world number one Rafael Nadal on Saturday before ultimately losing to defending champion Novak Djokovic in three sets the following day at the Shanghai Rolex Masters, Del Potro said he was feeling good about his form.

“I think I’m playing even better than many years ago. I got good things on my career this year. I couldn’t win a Grand Slam like I did in 2009, but I reached the finals in the 1000 Masters and I have already won three tournaments where I beat the top guys,” he told media following his 6-1, 3-6, 7-6 (3) loss to Djokovic on Sunday.

“I think I’m playing even better than 2009 or 2008 or last year and that’s important. That’s a good thing for the future. I’m still having the same goal, which is getting closer to the top guys. If I continue working like this, I hope I can be there one day,” the Argentine said.

However, going by his recent run that includes the Japan Open title in Tokyo last week followed by his final against Djokovic on Sunday, Del Potro still ranked the top players as the favourites. “I think they are still the favourites for each tournament. But I believe in myself. I’m very confident. I’m very pleased with my level,” he said.

“I’m very honest with myself. I think if I’m healthy and if I play like today or yesterday, I will have the chance to play good battles like we did today against the top guys. I love this sport. I love playing these kind of matches, even if I lose. But I will try in the next opportunity to change the result and be happy after the match,” he added.