Johanna Konta is relishing a feeling of normality as she prepares for the Australian Open.

The British number one will begin her 2021 season on Tuesday morning with a clash against American Bernarda Pera in the Gippsland Trophy at Melbourne Park before the year’s first grand slam begins next week.

Konta acknowledges she was one of the lucky players to be allowed out of quarantine for five hours a day to practise and complete her fitness drills, and the reward is being able to live largely without restrictions in a community that is currently coronavirus free.

“The way things ended, there was nothing wrong about it. We were definitely in a position that, if it made sense for both of us, the option was always open and that’s kind of how things worked out.

“I really enjoy learning from him and that keeps me very excited to do what I do. I feel like it makes me a better tennis player.”

Konta is known for her good perspective, and she hopes that will help her during what is sure to be another challenging season.

She said: “I think just staying flexible, staying open and being kind to yourself will make the difficulties – which there will be many of – easier to handle. What’s important to also remember is we still keep living, life is still going, so I think there’s a lot of enjoyment to be taken from that privilege in itself.”

:: Johanna Konta is an ellesse athlete. For more information see ellesse.com. Instagram @ellesse