‘Simply the best’: world delights in Ash Barty’s Australian Open triumph

The tennis and wider sporting world has delighted in Ash Barty’s grand slam triumph after the world No 1 became the first local to win the Australian Open women’s singles crown in 44 years.

Barty beat American Danielle Collins in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena to become the first Australian to triumph at Melbourne Park since Chris O’Neil in 1978.

Men’s tennis great Rod Laver posted a photo on Twitter with Barty, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, O’Neil and Judy Dalton and hailed the 25-year-old’s “special” achievement.

“A Grand Slam champion on three different surfaces, you are the complete player @AshBarty and I am so happy for you tonight,” he tweeted. “There’s nothing like winning at home, congratulations #AO2022 champion, it is wonderful to be here for this moment and to celebrate with Australia.”

Backstage with some amazing Aussie tennis legends, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Chris O’Neil, Judy Dalton and the one and only @ashbarty - who did something special tonight! pic.twitter.com/w3XinXWdHG

Two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka hailed the brilliant 25-year-old.

“There is just no better tennis player at the moment than @ashbarty,” Azarenka tweeted. “Most complete and focused! The way she is able to put pieces together and add a bit more to her game is absolutely admirable! What an example!”

Australian tennis legend Sam Stosur, who marked her 20th and final singles appearances at Melbourne Park, delighted in her compatriot’s success.

“I am speechless. You can’t be speechless on radio but I am,” Stosur said on SEN radio.

Barty’s accomplishment also resonated with other athletes. The Matildas, who are in India ahead of their Asian Cup quarter-final against South Korea, delayed their pre-match press conference to