Sabine Lisicki interview

Lisicki was the runner-up at Wimbledon 2013. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Sabine Lisicki was one of the WTA's standout players in 2013, with her runner-up finish at Wimbledon confirming her status as a fan favourite. We got in touch with Sabine to ask her about her year.

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Sabine Lisicki has really made a name for herself in 2013, reaching her first slam final and becoming one of the most popular players in the WTA. With her huge serve and feared forehands, the German promises to be a top ten player in the not so distant future. Here's what she had to say about this season, her ambitions for the future and more.

Firstly, congratulations on such a successful season. What was the key to your achievements this year? Is it simply a case of you improving technically, and/or would you say that experience has made a big difference?

Sabine: Thank you very much! The experience of the past few years have definitely helped to get this far. It's been an amazing journey and I'm very sure that the experience from this years final will help me in the future!

Now that you've had time to reflect on your Wimbledon run, what are your general thoughts on what you achieved? Beating Serena Williams and reaching the final must have been an incredible feeling. Does that give you extra confidence for future tournaments?

Sabine: It of course gives me a lot of confidence and believe in my game. That helps a lot in matches. Training is more fun too because I know it will pay off eventually!

On the flip side of this, do you feel an added pressure to win tournaments and perform well in slams now that you've been in a slam final?

Sabine: I've always put the most pressure on myself. I have dreams and goals that I want to achieve and that's what matters to me.

The Wimbledon crowd really got behind you this year. I think a lot of people enjoyed your on-court interviews and positive attitude. What did it feel like to be at the centre of attention? Do you feel comfortable being in the spotlight?

I love being in London so much. I even spent most of my holiday there this year! It's the best feeling in the world to get the support of the crowd.

I don't think people look forward to playing against you on grass courts! What gives you the edge when you play matches on grass? Is there a lot more to it than getting the most out of your serve?

Sabine: It simply feels natural to me. There are no changes that I have to play for Wimbledon.

I understand that one of your ambitions is to one day be the World No. 1. What do you think is the next step for you as you try to achieve this? Is there any particular area of your game that you're working on right now?

Sabine: I think it's putting the puzzle together in a way. I've got a lot of tools but need to learn how to use them even better.

People often talk about your powerful serve and groundstrokes. Are there any other elements to your game that you feel give you an edge over your rivals?

Sabine: My fighting spirit!

What is the biggest lesson that you've learned this season?

Sabine: To never give up and enjoy the game every second that I'm out there!