It’s a Slam dunk for Johanna

JOHANNA KONTA is a Grand Slam winner in waiting, according to her new coach.

American Michael Joyce linked up with the British No.1 during the off-season, following her split from Wim Fissette. The Australian Open will be their first Grand Slam tournament together, with Konta (left) among a number of players in the frame for the title.

Reigning champion Serena Williams is missing her fourth Slam in a row and Joyce sees no reason why Konta cannot be the one to step out of the pack. He said: “Women’s tennis has changed a lot in the last 10 years. I feel the top 10 maybe aren’t as good as 10 years ago.

“When I was with Maria (Sharapova), you had Serena and Venus, (Lindsay) Davenport, (Kim) Clijsters and (Justine) Henin.

“But I feel girls ranked 40-50 are a lot better now. Jo has proven she belongs in the top 10. She’s had some great results, winning Miami and being close at some of the Grand Slams.

“I have no doubt that she can win a Grand Slam.”

Joyce was the long-time coach of Sharapova during the first part of her career and worked last season with Victoria Azarenka.

And the 44-year-old is convinced this partnership can bring similar levels of success.

He said: “Before we agreed to work together I spent a lot of time watching her matches from the last few years.

“I like the way she plays and I feel I’ve had good success with those type of players.

“She’s such a hard worker and she wants to get better.”

Konta goes into the year’s first Slam as Britain’s main hope following the withdrawal of Andy Murray.

She can look back on huge success in Melbourne the last two years, with a dream run to the semi-finals in 2016 followed by a quarter-final appearance 12 months ago.

The 26-year-old will begin her campaign against American Madison Brengle.