Tennis legends react to Ash Barty’s retirement
Ash Barty surprised the tennis world and fans after announcing her retirement from the sport at the young age of 25.
The World No. 1 announced the news on Wednesday saying she knew it was time to move on after winning Wimbledon and the Australian Open.
“I will be retiring from tennis. It’s the first time I’ve actually said that out loud and it’s hard to say,” she began.
“But I’m so happy and I’m so ready and I just know at the moment in my heart for me as a person, this is right.
“I’m so grateful to everything that tennis has given me. It’s given me all of my dreams, plus more.
“But I know that the time is right now for me to step away and chase other dreams. And put the racquets down.”
Women’s Tennis Association chief executive Steve Simon wished Barty the best in her future endeavours.
“We wish Ash only the very best and know that she will continue to be a tremendous ambassador for the sport of tennis as she embarks on this new chapter of her life,” he wrote.
Fellow tennis legend Serena Williams tweeted: “@ashbarty I can’t lie I was sad to read your decision but also happy for your new chapter. Always your fan close up and afar. Sending all my love.”
“Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate,” Dylan Alcott wrote.
Aussie tennis hero Thanasi Kokkinakis kept it simple: “Respect it @ashbarty.”
“An incredible tennis player but more importantly one of the nicest people on tour,” American Madison Keys wrote.
“Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis what a player,” Andy Murray tweeted.
“An incredible tennis player but more importantly one of the nicest people on tour,” American Madison Keys wrote.
“Congratulations @ashbarty on an amazing career and good luck with what’s next!”
Former World No. 1 and Romanian tennis player said she’d miss Barty on tour.
“Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour,” she tweeted.
“You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments.
“What’s next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max.”
Image: Instagram