Former tennis star Ash Barty to join Harry Kane & Pep Guardiola at golf event

Ash Barty has confirmed she’ll take part in the Icons Series exhibition golf event, alongside esteemed sporting names, such as Man City manager Pep Guardiola and former swimmer Michael Phelps. 

Barty announced her shock retirement from tennis last month, despite being ranked number one in the world at the time. Earlier this year, the 25-year-old clinched her third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open but said she was “so ready” to step away from the game. 

The Icons Series is an exhibition golf tournament, with a nine-hole team match-play format. 

This year’s competition will be held in the USA for the first time, at the Liberty National golf course in New Jersey. 

Team USA, captained by 1992 Masters champion Fred Couples, will take on a Rest of the World team, led by four-time major winner Ernie Els. 

A number of renowned sportspeople have competed in the event over the years, including the late Shane Warne and former boxing world champion Oscar De La Hoya. 

And there are just as many star-studded names who will play this time around. Phelps, Guardiola and Barty will also be joined by Spurs captain Harry Kane and boxing legend Canelo Alvarez.

Barty is also said to be keen on bringing the tournament to Australia next year. 

Barty is a multi-talented sportsperson and has already played both professional cricket and tennis. 

After retiring from tennis for the first time in 2014, the Aussie turned her attention to cricket and played for Brisbane Heat in the inaugural Women’s Big Bash League. 

And the 25-year-old has proven she is a more than capable golfer as well –– winning the Brookwater Golf and Country Club ladies event last month. 

While the former tennis star has given no indication that she might pursue a