Australia’s favourite tennis legend, Ash Barty has taken out the title of world champion of women’s tennis by the sport’s governing body today.
In what’s been an astounding year for the 25yo full of accolades, this latest prize is one that she now retains from 2019– there was no award bestowed in the 2020 season as a result of the pandemic.
This year Barty has wowed the world, taking in five titles topped by her second grand slam singles triumph at Wimbledon.
Novak Djokovic was named ITF men’s world champion after winning the year’s first three slams — the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon.
Barty joins an esteemed list of multiple winners of the ITF women’s world championship award that has been running since 1978.
Steffi Graf won it a record seven times, Martina Navratilova and Serena Williams six times, Chris Evert, Martina Hingis and Justine Henin three times, and Monica Seles twice.
“Being the ITF world champion in 2021 is something I am very proud of,” Barty said.
“I feel fortunate to play the sport I love for a living, especially in a year that was challenging and unpredictable for so many.
“I want to thank my team and my family for everything they do and a huge thank you to tennis fans around the world for continuing to support us.”