If you read only the one sentence, it sounds a bit pompous. If you read the entire quote, especially in the context of the entire article and his other comments, I think it is very clear that he was saying that he sees himself capable of being in that group, so he is working hard to get there. I don't think there is a doubt in his mind that he can and needs to get better.

Another example of a single statement out of the context doing a disservice to the subject.