Johanna Konta says she wants to emulate fellow Brit Andy Murray by producing performances that can inspire the country.
It has been by far the best year of Konta’s career after she reached her maiden Grand Slam semi-final at the Australian Open and finished the season ranked number 10 in the world.
However, the British women’s number one has been overshadowed by the exploits of her male counterpart, who has risen to the top of the global rankings following wins at Wimbledon and the Olympics.
Konta is currently planning for next season and has a number of decisions to make as she is currently looking for a new coach following her recent split with Esteban Carril.
The 25-year-old is 41.00 to go on and win in January at Melbourne Park and admits the performances of two-time Olympic champion Murray have only inspired her to improve.
When asked about the Scot, who is the massive 1.12 favourite to retain his Sports Personality of the Year title on Sunday, she admitted it was hard not to admire the effect he has had on British’s tennis.
She told the London Evening Standard: “Andy transcends the sport in this country. He’s more than just tennis. He has become a national hero.
“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.”
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