© ATP
Steve Darcis of Belgium became the fifth player this season to win his first ATP title, accomplishing the feat as a qualifier on Sunday at the Dutch Open in Amersfoort, the Netherlands with a 6-1, 7-6(1) victory over first-time ATP finalist Werner Eschauer of Austria. Afterwards, Darcis improved from No. 297 to a career-high No. 146 in the ATP Rankings. He became the lowest-ranked player to win an ATP title since No. 349 Tommy Haas won Houston in April 2004.

ATPtennis.com caught up with the 23-year-old Belgian after his title on Sunday. (Darcis profile)

How does it feel to win your first ATP title in your first final?

This was an unbelievable week for me. I still don't realize what I did; it's a great feeling, almost like a dream.

This is only your second career ATP main draw and did you ever think you would win your first ATP title so quickly?

No, not at all. Already when I saw the quality of the qualifying draw I thought that it was going to be difficult. After having qualified I had a look at the draw and all the great players that were in it. It told myself that it won't be easy. But I went step by step and played a few great matches. But of course you never think about the final when you play in your second ATP event. You don't even think about the second round. This is really unbelievable.

You did it the hard way, qualifying and then winning five main draw matches...how are you feeling after all these matches?

I'm very happy now. I feel a bit tired too, I also have some in my arm.

You had some impressive wins this week, including Youzhny in the semifinals. Did that give you the belief you could win this title?

I became more confident with every match. Already in the last round of the qualifying I beat Guzman who is a good player. Then I beat Marc Gicquel and Gilles Simon, therefore I cannot say that it was the match against Youzhny who gave me the confidence but most of all the fact to beat several great players in a row.

What's been the difference this week in your play compared to the other previous weeks in your career?

I was already playing well the last weeks. But this week everything I tried worked out fine. I don't know what to say, I'm feeling so good right now. I still don't realize what I did.

Xavier Malisse won two titles early this year and then got hurt. What's your thoughts on the overall state of Belgian tennis?

Belgian tennis was on a high last year. Xavier had a great start this year playing at a very good level and winning two tournaments. We have a lot of great players with Olivier Rochus, Kristof Vliegen and Xavier Malisse.

Is there any player(s) you looked up to while growing up or tried to pattern your game after?

Pete Sampras has been an idol for me. I also look up to my fellow countrymen Olivier Rochus, Malisse and Vliegen, they are all great players. They've been doing well for some years now. It's good to have them around in Belgium and to be able to practice with them.

What is your favorite surface and best part of your game (strengths)?

Usually my favorite surfaces are hard and grass, but after this week I might have to add clay to this list as well. I think the serve is one of my best shots. I also like my forehand which I improved a lot.

Who has been an influence in your career and helped you get where you are today?

I think my parents. My father was a tennis coach and made me hit my first balls. My family has always given me a lot of support also in the difficult moments.

Do you have any ranking goals this year?

Before the tournament I said that I wanted to be Top 200 soon. After this week I should be around 150. Now my goal is to reach the Top 100 as soon as possible. I want to focus on the Top 100 and when I reach that goal I will set another one.

What hobbies do you enjoy or other sports when you're not playing tennis?

I try to fish when I have some time. I see my friends, go to the cinema. I also try to spend some time with my girlfriend when I come back from tournaments. I difficult for her and for me too. I just like to relax, have a drink with friends and spend time with them, like everybody at my age.

Other First-Time ATP Titlists in 2007

Philipp Kohlschreiber (Munich)

Ivo Karlovic (Houston)

Juan Monaco (Buenos Aires)

Gilles Simon (Marseille)