GRIGOR Dimitrov admitted his career-dream Queen's Club title edges him closer than ever to a long-anticipated grand slam breakthrough.
The 23-year-old Bulgarian has been dubbed as 'Baby Fed' - relating to similarities with roger Federer - for years, and conceded claiming the Aegon Championships yesterday cements his sharp upward curve.
Dimitrov saved a second-set match point to claim his third title of the season with a gritty 6-7 (8-10) 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (8-6) victory over Spaniard Feliciano Lopez in Kensington.
And the world number 13 hailed girlfriend and five-time grand slam champion Maria Sharapova for helping him hone his winning mentality.
"We're about to find out, in a week," said Dimitrov when asked if his grand slam moment might finally arrive at Wimbledon.
"it's always special to win in that week. This tournament in particular has been one i wanted to win.
you can even feel it in the spirit of the trophy itself when you lift it, it means something.
"So i'm just heading into Wimbledon with a lot of positive vibes.
"Of course it's great when you have all the pieces around you, it's touching for me because it's how i feel most comfortable.
"I have my team on a good level, and that adds up, because you know you'll be embraced either way.
"Maria's been unbelievable with me throughout all the years so far, just supporting me, and i think the feeling's mutual, and i hope this won't be the last tournament she's at.
"I think this is a step forward for me. I'm excited with progress so far, but my goals are way too high, so i wouldn't call it a breakthrough or a coming of age - not yet.
"I've had such a good time but there's still a lot to be achieved."
Dimitrov broke new ground by reaching the Australian open quarterfinals in January, and believes his Queen's success pushes him even further in the right direction. Girlfriend Sharapova was a keen spectator throughout the week in Kensington, on hand again for the final.
Dimitrov admitted feeling lucky to have the russian and coach roger rasheed in his corner.
"i think having Maria on my side definitely adds up, from a tremendous champion like her, there's a lot to learn," he said.