Net Worth: C. $40 million
Age: 27
DOB: Born: 24 April 1996
Birthplace: Ipswich, Queensland, Australia
Ash Barty is an Australian former professional tennis player and cricketer who became the darling of the media down under thanks to her extraordinarily successful career.
Best known for tennis, she won 15 career titles overall, three of which were grand slams, including the Australian Open in 2022. In addition, she was only the second Australian tennis player to be ranked world No. 1 in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association, a position which she held for 121 weeks overall.
Through her sporting achievements, Barty accumulated a tidy net worth. Now happily retired and having recently got married and given birth to a son, she has temporarily stepped away from the limelight. Though her memory lives long in the hearts of sporting fans across the world.
Early Life
Ash Barty is of indigenous heritage, being part of the Ngaragu people of northeastern Victoria and Southern New South Wales. She was the third daughter of Josie and Robert Barty, who themselves had a sporting pedigree, representing Queensland and Queensland and Australia, respectively.
Despite this background in golf, Ash Barty’s introduction to tennis happened at the tender age of four, and her innate talent quickly became apparent. Her early years in the sport were marked by success on the junior circuit, where she reached a ranking of number 2 in the world in 2011. Barty’s natural ability to read the game and her exceptional hand-eye coordination set her apart from most of her peers.
Aside from tennis, Barty also dabbled in netball but soon gave that up on account of her two elder sisters being better than her at it.
Junior Success
In 2011, at the age of 15, Ash Barty clinched the Wimbledon junior girls’ singles title, making her the first Australian to win a junior Grand Slam title since 1992.
Her triumph at Wimbledon marked the beginning of a promising career, which was defined by a swift rise through the rankings, which eventually led her to transition to the professional circuit.
Temporary Hiatus and Cricket
In a surprising turn of events, Ash Barty took a hiatus from tennis in 2014. Feeling the need for a break from the competitive nature of the sport, she pursued a professional cricket career.
Barty joined the Brisbane Heat in the Women’s Big Bash League, showcasing her versatility as an athlete. However, her time for them was largely unsuccessful, so her deep-rooted love for tennis ultimately brought her back to the court in 2016.
Professional Tennis Comeback
Barty’s return to tennis was nothing short of remarkable. Starting from pretty much at the bottom, she climbed the rankings with determination and skill, establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the WTA tour.
Her breakthrough moment came in 2019 when she secured her maiden Grand Slam title at the French Open. The victory not only marked a personal triumph for Barty but also made her the first Australian woman to win a singles title at Roland Garros since Margaret Court in 1973.
Versatility on all Surfaces
One of Barty’s most remarkable qualities is her adaptability to different playing surfaces. She possesses a well-rounded game that is effective on clay, grass, and hard courts, which is a testament to her versatility as a player.
Barty’s strategic and tactical approach to each match, combined with her powerful and accurate shots, allowed her to consistently compete at the highest level anywhere she played.
Achieving World No. 1
In June 2019, Ash Barty reached the pinnacle of women’s tennis by attaining the World No. 1 ranking. Her ascent to the top was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a passion for the sport.
Barty’s reign at the summit of women’s tennis showcased her ability to handle the pressures of being a top-ranked player for 121 weeks overall.
Shock Retirement
Having won the Australian Open in 2022, many sports writers believed she was all set to take on the world. However, she shocked the sport by announcing her retirement, citing that she no longer had the drive, desire or ambition to compete at the top level any more.
Her career record ended with a 74.9% win percentage and a record of 305 wins and 102 defeats.
Personal Life
Barty started dating the Australian golfer Garry Kissick in 2017, eventually marrying him in 2022. A few months later, they had their first child, a baby boy.
In 2020, Barty received the honour of the Young Australian of the Year. She is a massive fan of the Richmond AFL Club and was asked to present the premiership cup to them in 2020. Additionally, she is a passionate supporter of Manchester United in the English Premier League.
Conclusion
Ash Barty’s journey from a prodigious junior player to a three-time Grand Slam champion and World No. 1 is a testament to her resilience and commitment to the sport she loved.
With a style of play that combines finesse and power, Barty was a dominant force in women’s tennis. Now happily retired and with a significant net worth, it remains to be seen what Ash will do next.