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Konta & Watson bow out in Birmingham

Ros Satar
Tennis

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By Ros Satar, in Birmingham

  • Yanina Wickmayer def. Johanna Konta [9] 6-3 6-3
  • Barbora Strycova def. Heather Watson 7-5 6-4

BIRMINGHAM, UK – British No. 1 Johanna Konta followed compatriot Heather Watson out of the Aegon Classic, as the schedule played catch-up from the weather.

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 Yanina Wickmayer def. Johanna Konta [9] 6-3 6-3

It has been a tricky time for all concerned with the draw taking four days to complete just the first round. Konta was potentially facing three rounds on Thursday, winning her opener and the doubles, which had to be played indoors.

She could not advance past the second round though, coming up against the former 2008 finalist Wickmayer, who played some very solid tennis to advance at the Brit’s expense.

After the match, Konta said: “I’ve played four very good matches, so I’m really happy with the amount of time I’ve been able to get on the grass – obviously I’d always like to have more.

“However, I need to get used to players coming out and playing at a better level against me and that’s inevitable as I climb the rankings. I’m just looking forward to the challenge, working hard and trying to do my best.

“I’m very much looking forward to my next event in Eastbourne. It’s a home tournament for me so I’ll enjoy spending some time there before Wimbledon and playing in front of a home crowd.”

 

Barbora Strycova def. Heather Watson 7-5 6-4

Despite a late evening doubles indoors, Watson also struggled to adapt to the prolonged gap between her first and second round matches, losing her serve at the start of the first set.

In fairness the girl from Guernsey did try and put some late pressure on the Czech, but Strycova is looking in great form on a surface that suits her.

After her match, Watson said: “I knew it was going to be a tough one. I played her just a few weeks ago and she’s a very smart player and a good fighter. So I was prepared but I don’t think I dealt with the circumstances as well as she did. On the court we were on, I was getting distracted and I don’t think my focus was there today.

“The last few days, with the rain delays, has been a different experience. I thought I played ok today, I was just too inconsistent.

“I feel like I’m striking the ball really well, there are just a few tweaks that I need to make going into Wimbledon. I’m feeling very optimistic, even though I lost today.”

The Aegon International at Eastbourne will take place between 18-26 June.

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