JOHANNA KONTA’S Sydney International title defence came to an end today as she lost to Agnieszka Radwanska in the first round.

Konta lost in straight sets 6-3 7-5.

After her win, Radwanska was happy with the intensity of the match. She said: “It was a top-10 level match with some ups and downs, breaks along the way. The conditions weren’t easy but I’m happy to win in two sets.”

After being forced to retire five days ago against Elina Svitolina in the quarter-final of the Brisbane International, the ninth-seed had no major signs of physical problems on court.

Other wins came for Germany’s former world No 1 Angelique Kerber, who steamed past Venus Williams 5-7 6-3 6-1 in a three set marathon not long after midnight.

Ashley Barty triumphed over Ellen Perez in an all Australian encounter after rain delayed play but shortly passed over.

Konta’s next title shot is at the Australian Open, which commences this month. Her valiant efforts last year ended up in exiting in the quarter-final.