Fans were quite happy today to watch Ashleigh Barty make a comeback on the court again. The World No.1 player last played at the Qatar Open in February 2020 and didn’t play a single match in the 2020 season after that. Today, she faced the World No.2 Simona Halep in an exhibition match in Adelaide right before the Australian Open 2021.

Although Ashleigh Barty lost to Simona Halep in a very close match, she was able to win many hearts with her fighting spirit. The final scoreline of 6-3, 1-6, 6-7 clearly reflected that fact. In the post-match interview, she disclosed her feelings and said that it was fantastic to be back. She even thanked her fans for turning out in such a huge number to welcome her back.

“It’s absolutely fantastic to be back. [I] Genuinely missed it so much. I cannot thank you guys enough for not only welcoming myself but Simona and all the other players here,” said Barty in the interview.

Although Barty was out for about a year, she didn’t let that reflect in her performance. Despite the fact that she lost to Halep, she gave some really tough competition to her in the match.

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“Loved playing in front of you guys“- Ashleigh Barty

Barty also revealed that she was getting a little impatient to play in the last couple of months. She also stated that she is quite excited to begin her campaign next week at the Australian Open 2021.

“It’s just been great to be back. I’ve been getting a little bit impatient for the last 2-3 months, getting ready to play. I’m so excited to play next week, obviously. It’s a perfect preparation coming here,” added the World No.1 player.

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The Australian player also highlighted that she was feeling quite good playing in front of a packed stadium. She even said that playing in front of her fans was surely remarkable.

“I loved every minute, I loved playing in front of you guys. You know, it’s pretty amazing to think where we’ve been the last 12 months and to now have a near-full crowd here. It’s remarkable,” concluded Barty.

Barty will surely start as one of the favorites at the upcoming Grand Slam. Although she is making a comeback, fans still have pretty high expectations from her. Will Barty be able to win her second Grand Slam title at her home this year?

Also Read: Ashleigh Barty eager to make a comeback ahead of the Australian Open 2021