Former world number one Ash Barty has delivered a cryptic but firm response to persistent speculation about a return to professional tennis, stating she is content with her life after sport.
No Crystal Ball for Future Comeback
In an interview with The Canberra Times, the three-time Grand Slam champion addressed the ongoing calls for her to pick up a racquet again. Barty, who shocked the sporting world by retiring at the peak of her powers in 2022 at just 25 years of age, made it clear her priorities have fundamentally shifted.
"I have a very fulfilling life at the moment," Barty said. "My priority is my family and being able to enjoy watching my kids grow and develop. I don't have a crystal ball to see what the future looks like, but now I'm very happy where I am."
Backyard Cricket Replaces Centre Court
The 29-year-old mother of two young children – two-year-old Hayden and baby Jordan, born in June 2025 – is savouring a slower pace of life. She has traded the relentless global tennis tour for nappies and festive backyard cricket matches on Christmas Day.
"The competitor in me always comes out when we play in the backyard, but it's about enjoying it and creating those happy memories for my family," she explained. Barty added that her Christmas now truly begins on Boxing Day, when she can finally sit down and watch the cricket on television, a simple pleasure her previous training schedule often denied her.
Thriving in Life After Professional Sport
While no longer competing, Barty remains incredibly active and in high demand. She continues to work with Tennis Australia and is deeply involved with her own Ash Barty Foundation, which promotes participation in sport. She also dabbles in commentary and has authored children's books.
Her marketability remains sky-high, with a portfolio of brand partnerships ranging from Amazon and luxury watches to iconic Australian staples like Vegemite and Tim Tams. "I'm so grateful that I've met so many amazing people along the way," Barty said while promoting Amazon Flex. "It has opened the opportunity to work with brilliant partners and brands."
Looking ahead, Barty is excited to attend the Australian Open in mid-January 2026 as a fan, not a commentator or competitor. She plans to catch up with old friends on tour and enjoy the spectacle of elite tennis without feeling the urge to return.
"All Aussies are very excited for that summer of tennis to start and I'm no different," she said. "I love to watch a good contest... When you have two athletes that are really pushing themselves to the limits on the biggest stage, that's something that I love."
When asked if watching reignites her competitive fire, her answer was unequivocal: "No, it's not hard just to watch. Tennis is an easy sport to watch, and an easy sport to just enjoy."
