“Still Have Some Anxiety”: Johanna Konta on Safety Measures Ahead of French Open 2020

Former World No. 4 Johanna Konta is anxious about the upcoming French Open 2020. She is worried about the coronavirus pandemic and doubtful about how the tournament would proceed.

The 29-year-old Konta faced the same situation at US Open 2020 as players were not allowed to leave their hotels. She said that keeping in mind the COVID-19 crisis, it would be a challenge to organize the French Open.

“I still have some anxiety about it but maybe I was on the lower scale,” said Konta.

Despite having doubts about the safety measures, she is excited to be a part of the Grand Slam. After reaching the semi-finals of the French Open last year, she is more determined to win the title this time.

“It’s a very different French Open. I am looking forward to going back on site. I’m sure I’m going to have really nice memories from last year,” said the British player.

“Everyone is doing their best for it to not happen”- Johanna Konta

The French Open 2020 laid out its guidelines recently. It clearly stated that any player who tested positive or was in contact with any person who tested positive later would not be taking part in the tournament.

This resulted in Damir Dzhumur getting barred from the tournament as his coach Petar Popovic tested positive for coronavirus.

“We know it’s a possibility. Everyone is doing their best for it not to happen. But by going to a tournament you essentially take responsibility. If it’s going to worry you that much then it’s a serious conversation of whether you want to go or not,” Konta said.

She added that nobody knew the pandemic would be there for such a long duration.

“We’ve known it was going to be like this for some time. It’s not ideal, it’s not comfortable, so it’s just going along with that and keeping in mind that at least we’re playing,” said the 29-year-old player.

She felt it is also the responsibility of players to co-operate with the management.

“There are things I’m doing to keep myself safe, to keep my loved ones safe, and as long as I’m adhering to those things, I’m going to try and do my job the best that I can and live my life the best that I can,” said Konta.

Johanna Konta will face Coco Gauff in the first round of the French Open 2020. As she doesn’t have the best clay-court record, she will try to prove herself in the tournament. With big players like Ashleigh Barty and Naomi Osaka missing, it can be a good opportunity for her to win her maiden Grand Slam title.

Also Read: List of Players missing French Open 2020