Ash Barty Rules Out Wimbledon Comeback Despite Exhibition Win

Ash Barty, the former world No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam singles champion, has no plans to return to competitive tennis despite her impressive performance in an exhibition doubles match at Wimbledon on Wednesday.

Barty, who retired in March 2022 at the age of 25, played alongside Casey Dellacqua in a doubles match on Centre Court, three years to the day after she defeated Karolina Pliskova to win the Wimbledon title. The Australian duo defeated Andrea Petkovic and Magdalena Rybarikova in straight sets.

After the match, Barty was asked by journalists if she had any thoughts of making a comeback. "You guys are killing me," she said with a laugh. "Anyone have a thesaurus for a word that I can use for 'no'?"

Barty emphasized that she is content with her retirement and is enjoying her new life as a mother and commentator. "I've got a beautiful commentary box on both Centre and Court 1," she said. "You get a good view and are able to absorb what's happening out on the court. Hopefully people at home are enjoying what I’m having to say."

The 28-year-old said she does not regret her decision to retire and is impressed by the dominance of current world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. "I really enjoy watching others do well," she said. "We have seen Iga dominate for the most part of the last two and a half years. She’s been incredible the way she has composure, has gone on incredible runs, winning matches and really dominating, which is hard to do. It’s been really impressive watching from afar.”

Barty's return to Wimbledon sparked speculation about a potential comeback, but she quickly dismissed those rumors. "I love tennis. I love being here. I love being involved," she said. "Now, I just get to pick and choose in small doses, which is really nice.”

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