World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty, who announced her retirement from professional tennis on Wednesday, received praise and congratulations from the tennis community.
At the age of 25, Barty announced her surprise retirement from tennis. She has held the No. 1 ranking in the WTA for 114 weeks and counting.
Shelby Rogers, the last player to beat Barty at the US Open in 2021, rushed on Twitter to say: “What a legendary figure. On and off the court, he is an incredible source of motivation. One of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Number one on our list! @ashbarty, best of luck.”
Andy Murray, the former men’s world number one and Grand Slam winner, tweeted, “Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis what a player.”
“What a great @ashbarty.Tennis will miss you… incredible role model on and off the court… good luck mate for this next chapter,” Indian tennis standout and Grand Slam champion Sania Mirza commented on Twitter.
Petra Kvitova and Barty have had a memorable and amicable rivalry. The two Grand Slam champions have met ten times, with six of those encounters lasting to three sets. Their head-to-head match ends in a 5-5 tie.
“I’m speechless… in fact, you’re demonstrating genuine elegance by quitting tennis in such a nice manner. I’m so glad we were able to share the court… tennis will never be the same without you! As a player and a person, I appreciate you. I wish you nothing but the best!” Petra Kvitova expressed herself.
“Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right?” remarked Simona Halep, a former world number one and Grand Slam champion. On tour, I’ll miss you, my friend. You were unique and wonderful, and we experienced some incredible experiences together. What are your plans for the future? In golf, a Grand Slam champion?! Simo, be happy and live your life to the fullest.”
Dylan Alcott, Barty’s compatriot and the 2022 Australian of the Year, also announced his retirement this season after being the first player to complete the Golden Slam in quad singles.
Barty has announced his retirement after winning three major singles titles on three different surfaces: the 2019 French Open, 2021 Wimbledon, and the Australian Open in January. She won 15 singles titles and 12 doubles trophies in total, more than any other active player during that time period.
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