Konta wants ‘perfect’ path to Wimbledon

Johanna Konta has revealed she will play three grass-court events in the build-up to Wimbledon to prepare in the best way possible for the tournament.

The British number one reached the semi-finals at SW19 back in 2017, but otherwise her displays on grass have been disappointing. Her last-four showing was the only time in seven appearances she has got past the second round.

Konta (50/1 to win 2019 Wimbledon Women’s Singles) is determined to go deep into the second week at this year’s Wimbledon and feels her schedule will give her the best chance of achieving that.

The 27-year-old has confirmed that she will play in Nottingham – which runs from on June 8 to 16, then the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham (June 15-23) before heading to Eastbourne (June 21-29).

Speaking about her grass-court schedule, Konta said: “There is always a strong player field at Nottingham, Birmingham and Eastbourne, with no easy matches.

“Nothing compares to competing at home with passionate fans, friends and family behind you.”

Wimbledon begins later than usual this year (Serena Williams 7/2 fav) after tweaks to the ATP and WTA calendar, with the championships due to start on Monday, July 1.

It’s been a year of struggle for Konta, which has seen her slip to number 39 in the rankings, having been as high as number four back in the summer of 2017.

The British ace lost in the round of 64 at the Australian Open and failed to get past the second round in all of last season’s Grand Slam events.

Konta’s last WTA tournament victory came back in April 2017 at the Miami Open – a tournament she is 66/1 to win this year.

Odds subject to change.