Ash Barty stunned the tennis world when she announced her retirement from the sport in March 2022, just months after her maiden Australian Open triumph.
Now, it’s been nearly two years since the 27-year-old last featured on the court.
The Sporting News looks at what Barty has been up to since farewelling tennis.
Marries partner and gives birth to first son
Barty married partner Garry Kissick in July 2022.
The pair tied the knot at a private ceremony in Queensland, Australia.
Lands corporate and community ambassador roles
Barty has continued in her role as Tennis Australia’s National Indigenous Tennis Ambassador since her retirement.
She uses her status in the sport to encourage more Indigenous youth to play tennis while providing opportunities for them to explore their passion.
In August 2022, she was named as Optus’ new ‘Chief of Inspiration’.
Barty remains in the ambassadorial role with the telecommunications company, working alongside ‘Chief of Optimism’ and Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo.
“It’s very humbling that my story has inspired so many people, but the reality is there are millions of everyday Australians who have the courage and commitment to say ‘yes’ just like I did,” Barty said via an Optus Statement.
“I welcome the opportunity to encourage more people to say yes to the things they love.”
Releases tennis memoirs and children’s books
Barty released her tennis memoir titled ‘My Dream Time’ in November 2022.
The book offers a reflection on her journey to the top of tennis.
That same year, she published a six-book children’s book series – ‘Little Ash’.
Barty – a Ngarigo woman – worked alongside Kulkalgal co-author Jasmin McGaughey and Gamilaraay artist Jade Goodwin to create the books.
Continues to win sporting tournaments
Shortly after her retirement, Barty continued to make headlines when she won a local golf tournament.
She finished two shots clear of her nearest competitor to win the ladies’ golf championship at the Brookwater Golf and Country Club in Queensland.
The former tennis star took home a modest $30 for her triumph.
Despite her natural competitiveness and tendency to win, Barty stressed at the time she had no plans to play sport professionally again.
