Barty's Over

In a stunning announcement that shocked the world; the female tennis World No. 1 Ashleigh Barty has announced her retirement from tennis at the tender age of 25. It is the latest indictment of a sport that is tough to the extreme; with the pressures of competition; fame and travel round-the-world nature causing plenty of problems for players all round.

While it has been shocking; you could say there have been some glimpses to this situation. Barty has actually retired before; back in 2014 when she was only 17; when she decided to switch to cricket professionally. Again in 2019; she nearly decided to quit again after winning the French Open. She is good in golf as well, being a local champion; so who knows; maybe she will switch to another sport professionally.

While everyone will be wondering why she has quit at the peak of her powers; Barty gave a rather clear view of her decision. The sacrifices she has made on the climb to No. 1; both physically; mentally and personally have certainly taken a toll. She is unable to give anymore and thus has no option other than to quit. She also wants to spend more time at home and with her family; which is where she feels most comfortable anyways.