Ash Barty’s Rare Public Appearance in New Zealand
Retired tennis champion Ash Barty was recently seen embracing her role as a mother during a rare public appearance in New Zealand over the weekend. Barty, now 28, made headlines in 2022 when she stunned the world by retiring from professional tennis at the peak of her career, just after her triumphant win at the Australian Open. Since then, she has largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on her new life with her husband, Garry Kissick. On Sunday afternoon, Barty was spotted at Queenstown Airport, where she was photographed wheeling her luggage while her husband Garry pushed their son Hayden in a stroller. The three-time grand slam singles champion looked healthy and relaxed, sporting a blue Lorna Jane athletics t-shirt, a nod to her athletic roots.
Transition to Motherhood
In July 2023, Barty took to social media to announce the birth of her first child, Hayden. Just one year after tying the knot with Garry Kissick, the couple welcomed their little bundle of joy, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Barty’s transition from a high-profile athlete to a devoted mother has been nothing short of inspiring. Her focus and dedication to her family have been evident in her rare public appearances and heartfelt social media posts. On Christmas Day last year, Barty shared an adorable picture of her son Hayden standing in front of their Christmas tree, wearing a T-shirt that read, ‘I’m going to be a… big brother.’ This sweet moment was accompanied by a loving caption: ‘Merry Christmas from our growing family to yours!’ Barty’s posts have been a delightful way for her fans to stay connected with her and witness the joy and challenges of her new journey.
Attending the New Zealand Open Golf Tournament
Barty’s appearance in New Zealand is believed to be in connection with the New Zealand Open golf tournament, which she has attended before. Despite her retirement from tennis, Barty has maintained her passion for sports, particularly golf. She is an avid golfer with a handicap of four and has participated in and won numerous golf tournaments over the years. Her skills on the golf course have even earned her praise from golf legend Tiger Woods, who commented on her swing during a ball-hitting session at the Yarra before the Presidents Cup in Melbourne in 2019. Woods was impressed, saying, ‘She’s got a great swing. Are you kidding me?’ Barty’s involvement in golf showcases her versatility as an athlete and her continued love for the game beyond tennis.
Life Beyond Tennis
Barty’s decision to retire from tennis was a bold and unexpected move. She had achieved incredible success, winning three grand slam singles titles and holding the world number one ranking. However, she has always been clear about her reasons for stepping away from the sport. Barty explained in January 2022 that she wanted to focus on her personal life and find balance. She told the Herald Sun, ‘It’s been probably the best part of my life, being able to share this next chapter with my husband Garry. We have no idea what we’re doing but he’s alive and he’s happy. Terrified for what is going to come next but we’ll figure it out, I’m sure.’ Her candid words reflect the genuine happiness and excitement she feels about her new role as a mother, even as she faces the challenges of raising a family.
Balancing Family and Sports
Barty’s journey from tennis to golf and motherhood has been a fascinating one. Her adaptability and love for sports have been a constant thread throughout her career and personal life. She even tried her hand at cricket, playing for the Brisbane Heat in the Women’s Big Bash League during a break from tennis in 2015-16. Her natural talent was evident from the start, as Heat coach Andy Richards noted, ‘Her skill from the first time she picked up a bat was outstanding … she never missed a ball in her first session.’ Barty’s ability to excel in multiple sports underscores her athletic prowess and her willingness to explore new challenges. However, she has also spoken about the difficulties of juggling a young family and her fear of having two small children at home. Barty admitted, ‘As an athlete I used to be the most meticulous, organised person and now it’s absolute carnage.’ Despite these fears, she remains optimistic and is determined to make it work.
A Life of Joy and Uncertainty
The life of a retired champion and new mother is filled with both joy and uncertainty. Barty’s public appearances, like the one at Queenstown Airport, offer a glimpse into the life she has built with her family. Her fans and the sports community have been supportive of her choices, appreciating her honesty and the way she has embraced her new roles. While Barty has firmly ruled out a return to professional tennis, her presence in the golf world and occasional social media posts keep her connected with her passionate fan base. As she navigates the challenges of raising a family and pursuing her interests, Barty remains a role model for many, showing that success in one’s career can be complemented by a fulfilling personal life. Her journey continues to inspire and captivate, proving that there is more to life than just the game.
