The tennis world was shook when world number 1 tennis player Ashleigh Barty announced her sudden retirement at the age of 25 on Wednesday. In a video posted by Barty on Instagram, Barty said that she was "thankful for everything this sport has given me" and went on to announce that it was the "right" time for her to put her "racquets down". "Today is difficult and filled with emotion for me as I announce my retirement from tennis... I'm so happy, and I'm so ready and I just know at the moment in my heart as a person, this is right. I'm so grateful for everything that tennis has given me, it's given me all of my dreams plus more. But I know the time is now right for me to step away and chase other dreams and put the racquets down," she said in the video.
The Australian tennis star, who has also showcased her incredible skills in the world of cricket in the Women's Big Bash League before, retires as the top-ranked tennis player for more than two years.
Her incredible career includes three Grand Slam women's singles titles -- the French Open in 2019, Wimbledon in 2021 and the Australian Open 2022.
Here's how the Tennis world reacted:
Tennis player Simona Halep penned down a heartfelt message for Barty and wrote:
"Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo."
Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo@ashbarty
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