Kyle Edmund on why he gets more nervous watching Liverpool than he does playing tennis

The British No 1, who was recently knocked out of the first round of the Monte Carlo Masters by Andreas Seppi, said he’s been supporting the club from a young age

The British No 1 was recently knocked out of the first round of the Monte Carlo Masters by Andreas Seppi (Getty)

Kyle Edmund his revealed his life-long love for Liverpool, admitting he finds it easier to control his nerves on court when compared to watching Jurgen Klopp’s men in action.

The British No 1, who was recently knocked out of the first round of the Monte Carlo Masters by Andreas Seppi, said he’s been supporting the club from a young age when he used to adorn his bedroom with Liverpool paraphernalia.

Ahead of Tuesday night’s first-leg Champions League semi-final clash with Roma, the 23-year-old said he was hopeful Liverpool will clinch an early lead as they did against Manchester City in the quarters.

“I was at the home leg against Man City. It was amazing. The atmosphere was incredible,” he said. “It was the best football match I’ve ever been to in terms of the atmosphere. It felt like the crowd were playing against City themselves.

“Obviously it helps when you’re 3-0 up after 30 minutes! Hopefully something similar will happen against Roma. Liverpool are good at playing at Anfield in the Champions League. Taking a lead to Rome is going to be the key – something to play for, fight for and hold on to in Rome.”

Of his childhood growing up as a Liverpool fan, he said: “From being very young I just loved the kit, the crowd, the atmosphere. I had Liverpool bed sheets, curtains, everything. I would watch them whenever I could.”

He also admitted that his nerves often get the better of him when watching Liverpool – more so than when playing tennis in elite competitions.

“When I’m at home I get nervous watching them because I’m on my own. When I’m at games I’m really into it, getting up, shouting with the rest of the crowd – the opposite to what I’m like on the tennis court where I’m pretty low key and keep myself to myself.

“When you’re on the court you’re in control of everything so I find it easier to control the nerves than when I’m watching my team and I’ve got no control.”

Kyle Edmund will compete against Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray in the Fever-Tree Championships at The Queen’s Club, 18th-24th June. www.fevertreechampionships.com