Australian tennis star Ashleigh Barty made history by winning the Australian Open 2022. Not only did she win her third Grand Slam, but she also ended a 44-year drought for her country.

No Australian woman had won the Australian Open since Chris O’Neil in 1978. Thus, Barty’s victory finally brought the Australian Open trophy home. Furthermore, in doing so, Barty remains at the top of the WTA rankings, effectively staying as the World No. 1.

Right after she won the point that gave her the championship, Barty roared in triumph. Moreover, she went courtside to wrap former doubles partner Casey Dellacqua in a warm embrace.

Ashleigh Barty talks about former doubles partner’s significance

Barty spoke about the moment she embraced Casey Dellacqua after winning the championship in her post-match presser. “Casey is my best mate,” the 3-time Grand Slam champion said.

“She was right there,” Barty continued. Knowing that her best friend was watching the match from the courtside, she “just wanted to give her a hug”. After all, Casey was “one of the first people that (she) could see and give a hug to“.

Then, Ashleigh Barty talked about the significance Casey has always had in her life. “She’s done so much for me as a person,” Ashleigh shared. “She’s been there right from the start, and I love her to death,” the 2022 Australian Open women’s champion expressed.

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Additionally, Barty also appreciated the opportunity to share moments like these with her best friend. “She’s been a massive part of my life on the tennis court and as a personal friend,” Barty said.

ALSO READ: Coach Craig Tyzzer Praises Ashleigh Barty for Historic Australian Open 2022 Championship Under Massive Expectations

Dellacqua, now retired, is a commentator for Channel 9. Hence, she was courtside, as part of her role. Undoubtedly, the new Australian Open champion writing history and immediately hugging her best friend was a lovely, warm moment for the whole world.

Barty is grateful for where she is

Ashleigh Barty also took this chance to talk about how grateful she felt about her position in life. Talking about her friendship with Dellacqua, she broached the subject of balancing personal and professional life.

“I think being able to have that balance (between personal and professional life) and understanding, I’m very lucky,” Barty expressed. Moreover, she also acknowledged that she was “fortunate to be able to do what (she does)”.

“I get to play a sport I love, for a living,” Ashleigh stated. “I get to compete, work hard, and I think I just see that as an opportunity,” she said. Clearly, Barty is truly humble in victory, as she talked about how privileged she feels about where she is.

“There’s so many different things that I get to experience as a tennis player and I’m very fortunate to do that,” the 25-year-old said.  Are you excited to see more of Barty at Grand Slams?

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘We Were Both Crying’: Ash Barty Reveals She Had an Emotional Breakdown Before The Semi-Final