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Johanna Konta set for busy pre-Wimbledon calendar

British Number One Johanna Konta is set to compete in a tri-series of tournaments, including the Nottingham Open, Birmingham Classic and Eastbourne International – all taking place in June.

The 26-year-old was knocked out in the second round of the Australian Open after a shock defeat against American Madison Brengle, ranked 123rd in the world.

Konta was ranked runner-up in the Nottingham Open last year where she narrowly lost against Croatian, Donna Vekić, 6-2, 6-7, 5-7.

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Currently ranked 11th, Konta spoke to The Independent ahead of the tournaments: “As always I know there will be a really strong player field at Nottingham, Birmingham and Eastbourne and I’ll face some tough opponents in competitive matches, but I can’t wait to get on court and fly the flag for British tennis.

“The grass-court season is one of my favourites and nothing compares to competing at home with passionate fans, friends and family who are behind you all the way.

“These tournaments also provide me with the perfect pathway to Wimbledon. Last year it proved to be the best preparation possible as I enjoyed my most successful Wimbledon ever, and hopefully, it will have the same effect for 2018.”

This will be a good run for Konta, who made history at Wimbledon last year by becoming the first British woman to reach the semi-finals since 1979.

Konta will next play in Great Britain’s Fed Cup tie against Estonia.