Roberto Bautista Agut – Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: Questions, please.

Q. What are your thoughts on winning tonight?

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Well, I played very good, very aggressive. I didn’t give him all the court, all the control of the game. I played very good tennis tonight.

Q. He tried to come back at you in the second set, but you held him off pretty well.

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Yeah, I think was tough to get the break in the second because I had breakpoints in the first game, breakpoints in the second game on his serve. I couldn’t make them. Then he took the break, no? But I was mentally strong. I could come back playing very good tennis.

Q. Do you think that was almost the key, that you could break him back immediately?

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Yes, was the key. When he has advantage, he plays more relaxed, he goes more for the shots. I tried to make the score closer during all the match. That was better for me.

Q. What does it mean to you to win the trophy?

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Well, it’s very special, no? I was following a 500 event during all my career. Well, of course is my best win.

Q. What is next?

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: We will see, no (smiling)? I’m working a lot. I’m doing the right things, trying to be better player every day. Well, I hope something better is coming up.

Q. You struggled since Auckland, so this must be a big confidence booster for you.

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Yes, there is no better way to get a good preparation for Indian Wells and Miami than playing matches, playing tough matches with a lot of difficulties, like here in Dubai. Well, I have time to get fit to play a good tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami.

Q. You’re the first Spaniard to win since Rafa. How does that make you feel? Does that add anything?

ROBERTO BAUTISTA AGUT: Well, that means a lot, to win this trophy, no? I think the last winners are the best tennis players in the era. That makes me so happy.