From tennis to golf - Ash Barty returns to world stage of sport

From tennis to golf – Ash Barty returns to world stage of sport

Former tennis world No. 1, Ash Barty, has just revealed her next big move following last month’s shocking decision to retire from tennis.

Barty has announced that she will be playing in a global golf tournament in New Jersey, alongside some of sport’s biggest names.

She will be a headline act in the Icons Series which will take place in the US for the first time this June, and expected to be televised live in Australia.

“She’s absolutely terrific,” Icons Series chief executive Thomas Brookes told the Sydney Morning Herald about Barty, revealing how stunned onlookers with her golfing skills in a secret practice range session during last year’s US Open. Barty also won praise from superstar golfer and former world No. 5 Ian Poulter who was present during the session.

“He said, ‘oh my goodness, you are something else’. She’s got those skill sets within her locker. With a bit of practice she can get lower than a three or four handicap. I know she’s really, really excited to be playing in New York and she’s also really keen to bring the concept to Australia,” said Brookes.

Barty announced her sudden retirement to tennis last month, saying she is “fulfilled” and “happy” after winning Wimbledon and the Australian Open.

“I’ve given absolutely everything I can to this beautiful sport of tennis and I’m really happy with that and for me, that is my success,” she said.

‘As a person, this is what I want. I want to chase after some other dreams that I’ve always wanted to do, and always had that really healthy balance, but I’m really, really excited.’

After major speculation surrounding her next career move following her shock decision to retire, Barty says she is keen to bring the Icons concept to Australia.

“I’m excited to be part of the Icons Series and I hope through my participation in the series that we can encourage more women and girls to participate in golf around the world,” she said.

The first Icons Series event will be played from June 30-July 1.

×

Stay Smart! Get Savvy!

Get Women’s Agenda in your inbox