The impact of Andy Murray’s run in 2016 is one that has had a lasting effect on compatriot Johanna Konta and her future dreams.
The two has achieved historic milestones in British tennis this year during what has been their best season yet. Konta won her maiden WTA title earlier this year at the Bank of West Classic in Stanford before becoming the first British female top break the top ten since Jo Durie in 1984. Meanwhile, Wimbledon champion Murray closed out his season with five consecutive titles on his way to becoming the first player from his country to top the Emirates rankings.
Konta will be the first to admit that the achievements of Murray outshine hers, but it isn’t something that she is bitter about. Instead, she sees the Glasgow-born player as a somewhat inspirational figure for her and other players to emulate.
“Andy transcends the sport in this country. He’s more than just tennis. He has become a national hero.” Konta told the London Evening Standard.
“But the more players we can have like that and inspire a younger generation the better. That’s the biggest legacy you can leave as a player. It’s important to give back to a sport that’s been kind to me, and if I can inspire someone then great.”
Relishing in her achievements, Konta’s end to the year was struck by tragedy with the sudden death of her sports psychologist Juan Coto on November 12th. Shortly after she also ended her partnership with coach Esteban Carrill in what was a mutual split. During their two-year collaboration, Konta climbed the WTA rankings by over 100 places.
“There’s a natural end to every relationship, whether personal or professional,” she said.
“You’re evolving each year, and are looking to continue to grow and develop. That’s the case here and with every avenue in my life.”
There has been no announcement about who will take over from Carrill. During her off-season training at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, Konta has been seen hitting with British coach Andrew Fitzpatrick before conducting a one-week trial with Belgian mentor Wim Fissette. Fissette has previously worked with Kim Clijsters, Victoria Azarenka and Simona Halep.
The first month of 2017 will pose a big test for Konta, who will have a lot of points to defending following her run to the Australian Open semifinal in 2016. Despite the task, Konta has refused to let herself be hindered by pressure. Instead, she is taking a more calm and collective approach by acknowledging that she may ’underperform’ in the new year. A somewhat perplexed viewpoint of a top 10 player.
“There’s just as much chance I’ll underperform as I’ll perform the same or maybe even better,” she says. “Whatever comes, I will deal with that, it’s just part of sport. You’re not always going to do well but I just ensure I give my best.”
Konta will return to the tour at the Shenzhen Open in the first week of January.
