Local Tennis Sensation Ash Barty

Congratulations! Second Aussie Female to win the French open in the last 40 years and then finishing the year as No.1. Is there a sense of gravity to what you have done?

It’s been incredible and still feels surreal to be honest. I am very proud of what my team and I have achieved, it is rewarding to see all of our hard work paying off. Australia has such an amazing tennis history, I’m honoured to be a very small part of it.

Do you think you have changed your game much from previous years? You look very confident with your game now. Is there something that has made the difference?

My coach Craig Tyzzer and I have worked on all aspects of my game over the past few years. The biggest improvement for me has been consistency and the ability to get good results on all surfaces. I’ve also worked hard on my performance mindset with Ben Crowe.

Previously playing on clay was not preferred, but the win in Paris looks like something has changed. Is this something you have worked on?

To be honest, I definitely didn’t expect my first Grand Slam win to happen on clay! My game has been pretty consistent across all surfaces this year but my improved mindset definitely helped me get through a very tough semi to reach the final in Paris.

I imagine going out on court must be pretty nerve wracking & exciting all at the same time, do you have a pre-game ritual to get you in the zone?

My team and I prepare for every match in the same way, regardless of the tournament. This helps keep me focused and calm before a match, even on the big occasions.

What is next for you? Are you someone that says, “I want to tick this off” or “Have to win at…”?

An Aussie Open title would be pretty amazing.

You have a lot of local support, has there been much of a party now you are back in Aus?

I’ve loved having some time at home with my family and friends to rest, catch up and reflect on the year. I managed to sneak in a quick holiday to Hamilton Island but otherwise I really love just being in my own house, doing normal things and spending time with the people close to me.

How does it feel to look up into the crowd and see your very own Barty Army, dressed in Vegemite tees nonetheless, I imagine this would be pretty surreal.

It’s very cool. As an Aussie, Vegemite is one of the most iconic brands we grow up with. To have them supporting me is something I never expected but I love it.

From playing against kids almost twice your age when you were younger to winning the French Open, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given to get you to where you are today?

If you think you can or you think you can’t you’re probably right!

QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS: 

Favourite pre game snack? Pasta or banana.

Best pump up song? Black Eyed Peas, I Gotta Feeling.

If you weren’t playing tennis, what would you be doing? Potentially a dog breeder….who knows!

Do you have any pets? Yes, two dogs at my house called Affie and Chino and two more at mum and dad’s – Rudy and Maxi. I love them.

Coffee or tea? Definitely coffee.

Favourite movie? The Lion King.

SHOP OUR TENNIS RANGE