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However in a social media video on Wednesday, Ms Barty said she was retiring to “chase other dreams”.
She said: “I wasn’t sure how to share this news with you so I asked my good friend [retired Australian tennis player Casey Dellacqua] to help me.
“I am so thankful for everything this sport has given me and leave feeling proud and fulfilled.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way, I’ll always be grateful for the lifelong memories we created together.”
Ms Barty added she was “absolutely spent” and “physically I have nothing more to give”.
Women’s Tennis Association head Steve Simon said in a statement Ms Barty would be missed.
He said: “Ashleigh Barty with her signature slice backhand, complemented by being the ultimate competitor, has always led by example through the unwavering professionalism and sportsmanship she brought to every match.”
Fellow Australian Grand Slam winners also paid tribute. Sam Stosur praised Barty’s “incredible career”, while Dylan Alcott described her as a “champion in every sense of the word”.
READ MORE: Ash Barty: Australian Open champ on facing struggles with partner
In a poignant moment she was presented with her trophy by fellow Aboriginal Australian tennis champion and mentor, Evonne Goolagong Cawley
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