Jo Konta forced to retire from Brisbane International through injury

The British number one had looked in fine form, particularly in the first set, but will now turn her attention to getting fit for the Australian Open later this month

Jo Konta will now focus her attentions on the Australian Open (AFP)

Jo Konta was forced to retire from the Brisbane International due to injury in her quarter-final clash with Elina Svitolina on Thursday.

Ukraine's Svitolina was leading 1-6 7-6 (8/6) 3-2 when Konta called time on her participation at the Pat Rafter Arena after seeking treatment two games earlier.

The British number one had looked in fine form, particularly in the first set, but will now turn her attention to getting fit for the Australian Open later this month.

Konta appeared to be suffering with a right hip problem and, with the first grand slam of the year beginning on January 15, decided not to risk further injury.

Svitolina said: "It's the worst thing that can happen to a player, especially when it happens during a match. It's always very disappointing.

"Hopefully Jo will recover quickly and we will see her back on court soon. She played a really good match today and you can see she's really playing well."

Konta had not reached a quarter-final of an event since August but looked to have returned to form after dominating the first set in which she saved all four break points against her serve.

Konta was looking good before having to retire early (Getty)

Svitolina twice served her way out of trouble in the second set to force a tie-break which she eventually won.

A tight third set was interrupted as Konta called for the trainer after three games before the 26-year-old pulled out of the match after two hours and 12 minutes on court.