Heather Watson says victory in the Japan Open was the perfect way to end the year as the new British number one moved into the top 50 for the first time in her career.
The 20-year-old from Guernsey survived four match points against Chang Kai-chen to claim the title 7-5 5-7 7-6 (7/4) in a match which lasted over three hours.
"I really wanted to do well this week so I could earn my rest next week because this is my last tournament of the year. I don't think I could have ended it any better," she told BBC Radio Five Live.
"Being in the top 50 was a real goal for me and it will push me to make harder goals for myself. I'm excited to have a break but I am looking forward to working hard again because it motivates me to achieve more."
The bonus of hitting the number 50 spot rounds off a terrific year for Watson as she moved above compatriot Laura Robson, who sits two places below the Channel Islander at 52.
"Laura and I have come through the rankings together juniors and seniors - and we're both very competitive, so when we see the other doing well, it pushes us,'' Watson added.
"Knowing Laura did so well in China a few weeks ago definitely motivated me this week. But I think it's great we're really good friends off the court as well.''
It was the first ATP Tour victory by a British woman since Sara Gomer won in California in 1988 and Watson was in no mood to downplay the achievement.
"I've been working to be more aggressive lately," she told BBC Radio Five Live. "When I got to the point when I was three match points down and she was serving for the match at 5-4 40-0 I just thought 'oh no, I had this, I was so close', but I just took it point by point, I don't know how I did it but I did.
"Now I've got the title and I am so happy, this ranks as one of the best days of my life."
