David Goffin describes beating Roger Federer at the ATP Finals as the 'perfect moment'
The Belgian has beaten both Federer and Nadal at The O2.
Thursday 7 November 2019 14:33, UK
David Goffin described securing a maiden victory over Roger Federer in the semi-finals of the ATP Finals as the “perfect moment”.
The world No 8, the first Belgian to qualify for the season-ending tournament, booked his spot in the final with an impressive 2-6 6-3 6-4 victory over the 19-time Grand Slam champion.
Goffin struggled to impress his game against Federer, who was aiming for a seventh year-end title, in the early stages - losing his serve twice.
However, the 26-year-old, who will lead Belgium in the Davis Cup final against France next week, responded in fine fashion by breaking Federer's opening service game of the second set to force the decider.
Goffin continued to be the aggressor in the final set and after breaking Federer's serve for the second time in the match he maintained his composure to secure an unlikely victory, days after beating world No 1 Rafael Nadal.
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"Both are really special," the Belgian said, when asked about the significance of the victory in his post-match press conference.
"It was the first time against Rafa. Then (to reach) the semi-final for the first time for me here, and to beat Roger for the first time here in such a big event, big tournament, it was the perfect moment."
The Belgian admitted the manner of the victory will be beneficial as he prepares to help his country to a first triumph in the Davis Cup in Lille, but believes the pressure of the two scenarios are difficult to compare.
"For the Davis Cup, it gives me a lot of confidence," Goffin added. "But it will be something different when you play for your country and not for yourself.
"The way I managed the pressure will help me to manage also the pressure there, but it will be something different. It will be against the stadium."
The two-time winner this season preferred to look on the positives of his achievements when he was asked whether he was concerned about burnout before facing the hosts.
"There is nothing negative in this period," said Goffin. "I have to play the final in Davis Cup. I have to play the final here. It is something incredible.
"The fatigue doesn't mean anything. I just have to go for every match, every moment of the court, enjoy that moment because, yeah, it's the biggest final of my career, here and in Davis Cup. I will try to play match after match, give everything on the court."
The season-ending extravaganza ATP Finals at London's O2 in November ends another memorable year which will be covered via our website www.skysports.com/tennis with live blogs and updates as the season reaches its climax.
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