Tennis world went into a state of shock as current world no.1 Ashleigh Barty announced her sudden retirement from the sport. Many former and current players reacted in distress after hearing the news.

Many of them congratulated the Aussie star for having an incredible career. Some of them felt sad and disappointed with the news. Now, 18-year-old American teenage sensation Coco Gauff weighed in with her thoughts about Barty’s sudden decision.

Coco Gauff congratulated Ashleigh Barty for an amazing career

After hearing the news, Coco Gauff took to social media to congratulate the reigning Australian Open champion. The American took to her social media to applaud Barty for an amazing career. 

On her Instagram story, she shared the WTA video about the Aussie player, and wrote, “We will miss you Ash… Incredible career and person!!”

Gauff also tweeted, “Incredible career and person. Congrats on everything you’ve accomplished so far and everything you will accomplish in this next chapter! @ashbarty.”

Notably, Barty and Coco only faced each other twice in their career with both the players winning one contest each. Barty retired during their first meeting while Gauff put up a tough fight in Adelaide before losing out to the Aussie in three sets. 

What’s next for Barty? 

In the video shared by Ash Barty on Instagram, she explained that she doesn’t have anything to give to the sport and wanted to move on with the next phase of her life. 

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“Today is difficult and filled with emotion for me as I announce my retirement from tennis… 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 that we created together.”

Since Barty is only 25 years old, fans are speculating about what sport she could play next. Previously, she tried her hands at cricket, one of the most popular sports in Australia.

According to Simona Halep, she could become a Grand Slam champion in golf. Barty indicated that there will be a press conference tomorrow, where she will talk in detail about her retirement. Maybe we will get the answer about her future plans during that presser. 

Read More: ‘Gutted for Tennis!’ – Andy Murray, Petra Kvitova, Simona Halep, and Other Tennis Players Send Heartfelt Messages to Ashleigh Barty After Her Retirement Announcement