Shropshire Star

Johanna Konta aiming to impress at Aegon Classic Birmingham

British No.1 Johanna Konta will go into her first match at this year’s Aegon Classic in Birmingham aiming to put on a show for the crowds.

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Konta relishes playing in front of packed courts and is keenly aware that tennis is in the entertainment industry as she looked to shake of the disappointment of losing in the final at Nottingham at the weekend.

And she is looking for more court time to get used to the challenges of playing on grass.

“Most people try and get as much time as possible on the surface heading into Wimbledon,” said the 26-year-old.

“It’s a short season, so I’m just looking to play as many matches on the grass and look to adapt well heading into the Wimbledon battle.”

And she is hoping to have a big crowd at the Edgbaston Priory Club.

“I love playing in front of people. Whether the crowd is for me or against me, I think most importantly we are entertainers,” she added.

“People pay to come watch us perform and give them, hopefully, a good match. So that’s always a nice feeling when people are around and they’re there to watch you give your best. I just like it if there are people around.”

Meanwhile, fellow Brit Heather Watson exited the tournament at the first hurdle. The wildcard entry lost 2-6, 7-5, 3-6 to Ukrainian Elina Svitolina in the first round yesterday.