Some of the absolute best of Tennis now grace the courts of Cincinnati at the Western and Southern Open. The power-packed lineup has fans at the edge of their seats with enthralling battles. Notably, the star of the tournament so far has been Ashleigh Barty, as she moves an inch closer to a chance at a Career Grand Slam.

Australia’s golden girl, Ashleigh Barty, has been at the heart of the news this season. After too many years of falling short, she finally got her hands on a title, winning the 2021 Wimbledon Championship. She also etched her names in the history books of the game, bagging the bronze medal in the mixed doubles category at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Now, as she moves a step closer to yet another title at the Cincinnati Open, she opens up on her nerves, lining up for a Career Slam.

WATCH THIS STORY: Rafael Nadal’s Top-Five Worst Injuries.

“I hadn’t even thought about it”- Ashleigh Barty

Thanks to her recent heroics, Ashleigh Barty has emerged as a new fan favorite. Not just a popular face though, her performances also make her likely to win another title. However, the Aussie-born does not seem to be fascinated by the possibility of attaining greatness and brushes off the topic in a rather light-hearted manner.

Revealing her feelings on achieving a Career Grand Slam, she said, “Yeah, look, I hadn’t even thought about it. It took me 25 years to get the first two, so let’s hope it doesn’t take another 25 to get the next two. We’ll leave it at that.”

The 25-year-old might have had a decorated season so far, but despite winning bronze in Tokyo, she admits her singles category exit was a tough pill to swallow. Recalling the events from Japan, she said, “Yeah, I think the singles in Tokyo was a tough one. You know, I was quite quick to forget and move on from that one. I think for me I know that wasn’t a true indication of who I am out on the tennis court.”

A tough challenge next up

Putting the past where it rightly belongs, Ashleigh kick-started her Cincinnati campaign in thrilling style. The top seed of the tournament lived up to her rank as she beat British international, Heather Watson, in her opening match. Notably, even as Heather surprised many with her sheer resilience, Ashleigh displayed her caliber and whitewashed the 29-year-old in straight sets.

Top Stories

Rafael Nadal Faces New Injury Blow Only a Year After His Emotional Tennis Exit

Roger Federer Sparks Comeback Frenzy After Huge Australian Open Announcement

Aryna Sabalenka Breaks Silence on Nationality Switch After Belarus Representation Ban

Taylor Townsend Makes Unexpected Coaching Call After Career-Defining Success

Coco Gauff’s Vision Pays Off as Two Tennis Influencers Achieve Major Breakthrough

Next up she faces the Belarusian, Victoria Azarenka. The Rogers Cup quarter-finalist walked into the Cincinnati tournament with exhilarating confidence. She cruised her way to her round of 16 with back-to-back straight-set wins. Hence, it will take something special from Ashleigh to overthrow the giant, playing in the form of her life. Regardless of the result, a fierce battle awaits.

Read more: Alexander Zverev Says Beating Novak Djokovic at Tokyo Olympics 2020 Was the ‘Most Emotional’ Part