Marcos Baghdatis says he is aiming to get back into the Top 30 and, after having become a father for the second time, is feeling much more relaxed about competition.
The 30-year-old from Cyprus defeated David Goffin in the opening round of Rotterdam.
Bagdhatis, a former Australian Open finalist and Top 10 regular, is currently ranked No. 68 following several injury-affected seasons. But he says that unlike a few years ago, he has been recommitted to the game for a while, partly because of his wife, former player Karolina Sprem.
"Karolina was very important because she also played tennis. She also went through a career and she had some injuries herself," Bagdhatis told the ATP website. "She helped me a lot first of all to have someone to listen to me, who has felt what I've been through."
The couple, who had one daughter, Zahara, welcomed a second girl during the off-season. Having a family has changed his approach to the game, Baghdatis explained.
"You don't get too stressed during the match or before it," Baghdatis said. "If I lose today, tomorrow I'm home to hug my daughter, which is one of the best things in the world. Really it takes a lot of pressure off you.”
But Bagdhatis still has more tennis goals, adding that he is encouraged by the success of other 30-and-over players on tour.
"They're playing their best tennis and I think I am playing my best tennis," he said. "I think I can play even better and be more consistent. That's what we're working for. Now it's a matter of staying fit. I hope to play another year in the Top 50 and maybe make the step to Top 30, which is the goal."
Baghdatis plays Martin Klizan in the next round in Rotterdam.