“Incredible human being”: Ash Barty’s heartwarming act after becoming World No. 1
Instead of taking in her incredible achievement of becoming Australia’s first female World No.1 tennis player since 1973, Ash Barty’s immediate thoughts were with her defeated opponent.
The pair put their special bond aside for a moment as they went head to head in Sunday’s final of the Birmingham Classic.
The match ended in a stunning defeat for German Julia Goerges 6-3 7-5, leaving the Aussie athlete not only securing the world No. 1 ranking but also top-seeding status for Wimbledon starting on July 1.
But despite her accomplishment, the 23-year-old remained humble as she paid tribute to her opponent in her victory speech.
“I couldn’t think of a better person to share the court with,” she told Goerges, who was in tears.
“You’re one of my best friends on tour and you’ve been there for me since I was a little ‘tacker’.”
“She’s the most incredible human being with the most amazing team.”
The dynamic duo then shared a heartwarming embrace, garnering praise from around the world.
The tennis champion also had a slew of famous faces impressed by her performance, such as Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe tweeting their congratulations.
Ash Barty.
#1.
Brilliant.— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) June 23, 2019
Barty is the fifth Australian tennis player to be given the title of World No. 1 since 1973, when rankings were first introduced. She joins the likes of Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Pat Rafter, Lleyton Hewitt and John Newcombe.