Tennis

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.”

Ash Barty Returns to Wimbledon for Legends' DoublesFormer world No. 1 Ash Barty will make her triumphant return to the All England Club for the first time since her 2021 Wimbledon victory, but this time in the Legends' doubles event.Barty, who shocked the tennis world with her sudden retirement in 2022, will reunite with her best friend and fellow Aussie Casey Dellacqua for the invitational doubles tournament during The Championships. The pair have a successful history together, reaching four Grand Slam doubles finals, including Wimbledon in 2013."We're just gonna have a great time and enjoy just being back together as friends on a tennis court, which we have loved to do our whole life," Dellacqua said. "I'm actually really excited about it."Since retiring, Barty has pursued other passions, including releasing a children's book, taking up golf, and preparing for her role as a commentator during the Olympic Games. In July 2022, she welcomed her first son, Hayden, with her husband, golf pro Garry Kissick.Barty's return to Wimbledon, albeit in a different capacity, is sure to evoke fond memories for fans who witnessed her historic victory in 2021. Her presence at the All England Club will undoubtedly add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

Ash Barty, the three-time Grand Slam tennis champion, showcased her diverse athletic abilities this week in New Zealand. While she narrowly missed the cut at the New Zealand Pro-Am Championship in golf, she made headlines with her impressive performance on the tennis court.Barty, who also played cricket professionally for a brief period, displayed her exceptional hand-eye coordination and athleticism in both sports. Despite missing the cut in golf by two shots, she enjoyed a strong second round in the team event at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown.When asked about the possibility of pursuing professional golf or returning to professional tennis, Barty unequivocally stated, "The answer is no to both." She emphasized her love for playing tennis as a hobby and the joy she finds in spending time outdoors."I love playing as a hobby and it's obviously lovely to get outside for 18, go for a walk, and enjoy it," Barty said.Barty's retirement from tennis at the age of 25 after winning the 2022 Australian Open marked a remarkable end to her illustrious career. Since then, she has embraced motherhood and found time to indulge in her passion for tennis.Her recent performance in New Zealand serves as a testament to her enduring athleticism and the joy she derives from participating in sports. While she may not be pursuing professional golf or tennis, Barty's love for both sports remains evident.