Johnson returns to Breakers

Orange County native and fan favorite Steve Johnson will play for the Orange County Breakers in their home opener Aug. 1 at Newport Beach Tennis Club, the Breakers announced Friday.

Johnson, who is currently ranked No. 32 in the world in singles, also played for the Breakers during the 2013 World Team Tennis season. He starred at Orange High and USC.

“I was really excited when the opportunity came up to play for the Breakers again this season,” Johnson said in a release. “The WTT format is so exciting, plus I always enjoy playing in front of my friends and family in Orange County. I am sure it will be a great night and I look forward to representing the Breakers once again this summer.”

The home opener Aug. 1 is scheduled to be Johnson’s only appearance for the Breakers this season. During his debut WTT season in 2013, he knocked off former world No. 1 Andy Roddick on his way to earning the league’s Male Rookie of the Year award. Aside from his Mylan WTT achievements, Johnson made his first ATP World Tour top 30 singles appearance in February and is also ranked in the top 50 in doubles.

While at USC, Johnson led his team to four consecutive NCAA titles, also winning two singles titles in 2011-12 for the Trojans.

Fans interested in securing seats to the Breakers’ home opener featuring Johnson are encouraged to purchase season tickets, which allows fans to guarantee this match. Season tickets can be purchased now by visiting www.breakerstennis.com. All Breakers home matches will be played at Breakers Stadium at Newport Beach Tennis Club and will start at 7 p.m.

— From staff reports