brilliant effort today. Somehow lost the first from 4-0 up and I assumed that would be it for her, but she kept plugging away, trying to find her rhythm and range, and eked out a close second set. Even in the third, for the most part Stephens was still giving it her best effort
, but she's been in poor form lately and this is why I thought Jo had a chance at this one.
Jo really found her backhand towards the end of this match, the forehand has been more solid than usual lately. That's now 4 maindraw appearances for Konta in Rome, and she's made it to the R16 every time
what is it about Rome for Jo?
Huge task against Venus next, who hasn't played since Tuesday and will be much fresher. 2.5 hours against Sloane will do worlds for Jo's confidence but she has one of the toughest turnarounds of anyone today, as she'll be on court again in just under 3 hours.
Since losing to Jo 3 times in a row at one point, Vee has always gotten up for Konta and plays some of her better tennis every time against her now, so I'm dreading that match
it's on Centrale too which plays so differently from the other courts. Fingers crossed for a miracle