Former Australian tennis star Ashleigh Barty broke many hearts last year when she called it quits after winning the Australian Open. However, there’s good news for Barty fans as the former world number one is all set for a return. The Aussie will be back in the tennis circuit, however, not as a player this time. Last year’s defending champion will be mentoring one of her compatriots in the first Grand Slam of the year.

The three-time Grand Slam champion was the top WTA player when she retired and it was a massive shock for everyone.

Ashleigh Barty to return as a mentor in the Australian Open

Former world number one, Ashleigh Barty, will be back on the tennis scene. She is working as a mentor for the Australian tennis star Olivia Gadecki for the Australian Open. Barty won the singles title at the first Grand Slam of the year in 2022. While she won’t be there to defend her title, the Aussie will help her compatriot out who is going to enter through a Wildcard.

Gadecki recently spoke about her experience working with the three-time Grand Slam champion in an interview with the Australian Associated Press, reported by CNN.

“I’ve been really fortunate to always be able to contact her if I have any questions or if I need advice. She has always been there for me,” she said.

Adding further, Gadecki said, “The best part is she just treats me like a normal person and we can relate in that regard and off court is just as important as on court.”

Read more: ‘Can’t Wait for Bubba to Join the Brood’ – Retired Tennis Star Ashleigh Barty’s Surprise Announcement Delights Former Peers as They React in Joy

Even though she won’t take to the court again, her fans will be happy to see Barty back in any capacity.

Barty closely follows her Australian tennis mates

Ashleigh Barty, the tennis player, has retired but the tennis fan inside her is still alive. Even though she hung her racket quite soon, the Aussie is always there to support her mates. While the 25-year-old is going to mentor Gadecki, she also follows Nick Kyrgios closely.

Kyrgios also represents Australia and made his nation proud by making it to the final of the Wimbledon Championships last year. Following his incredible run, Barty applauded her friend Kyrgios for the remarkable feat.

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Barty had a short but quite impactful career as a tennis player. It will be interesting to see how she fares as a mentor now. Are you excited to see Barty back? Let us know in the comments.