Ash Barty built a near-perfect game but never lost sight of the No 1 priority: herself

Throughout the chaotic month of January, Ash Barty burst into the new tennis season in full flow, dismantling all challengers. She scythed them with her backhand slice, out-served opponents who towered over her by half a foot or more, and continually displayed her encyclopaedic knowledge of each opponent’s game, honing in on their weaknesses and methodically picking them apart.

In a sport where players tend to focus only on themselves, that last quality is distinct enough. But it is even more fascinating considering Barty’s relationship with tennis. Despite the game flowing through her veins, it is not of particular interest aside from her personal ambitions and daily work. Off the court she keeps a healthy distance from it, her hobbies are elsewhere, and tennis is never on the TV when she is nearby. “It’s gonna be a great match,” said Barty, when asked about the second semi-final after she reached the Australian Open final. She chuckled to herself. “I probably won’t watch it.”

While Barty’s decision to retire on Wednesday at the age of just 25, as the No 1 player in the world and during such a beautiful moment in her career, is a shock on the surface, the manner of her departure fits perfectly into the way she has conducted her career.

Since 2014, when the 18-year-old Barty took an indefinite break from the sport due to burnout and depression, her message has been consistent. She has worked hard, with ambition and drive, but her priorities have remained her family, personal happiness and mental wellbeing.

She has always done things her own way. She scheduled tournaments sparingly, always ensuring that she had enough time to return home during the season and to enjoy her various sporting hobbies. When she couldn’t