Cilic after beating Agut: “Possibly one of the toughest matches I've played"

The 2018 finalist and current world no 39 is hitting top level after an underwhelming 2019 season.

Marin Cilic overcame Roberto Bautista Agut in five sets to reach to the fourth round of the Australian Open. And he said the game against Agut is one of the toughest he's ever played.

“Possibly one of the toughest matches I played, just in terms of the level... From beginning until the end, [Roberto] played on his own level without too many ups and downs," Cilic said.

“It was just extremely difficult physically and mentally both, and [to] sustain it for more than four hours, it just gives me great satisfaction and feeling very proud, definitely.

“It's great for me that I win these kind of matches against somebody like him who is in great form, playing great.”

The 31-years-old endured a disappointing 2019 campaign which saw an end to his 11-year title winning streak. Cilic also ranked outside the top 37 in the FedEx ATP Rankings for the first time in 11 years.

Cilic is, however, feeling reinvigorated in the new year and hitting top level just in time at the Australian Open.

"I'm entering this season with a fresh mind. Had a good time off at the end of the season, practised well and definitely here playing good. [I'm] just enjoying myself on the court and battling it out."

Cilic will play Milos Raonic in the fourth round of the Australian Open on Sunday.

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