Ashleigh Barty returns to the Australian Open as a mentor of Olivia Gadecki

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Retired WTA player Ashleigh Barty will mentor Olivia Gadecki as the Queensland prodigy makes her debut at the Australian Open this month.

Ashleigh Barty

An unranked Gadecki attracted international attention when she defeated 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin at the WTA 250 Phillip Island Trophy tournament in Melbourne two years ago. Last season she skipped the Australian Open as she refused to get vaccinated against COVID-19, so now she’s finally making her debut in the main draw of a Grand Slam, as a wildcard helped by none other than the reigning champion Barty.

The three-time major titlist Barty has been mentoring Gadecki for several years and is there to help the 20-year-old make a successful transition to the professional circuit. “I’ve been really fortunate to always be able to contact her if I have any questions or if I need advice, she’s always been there for me,” the world No.202 Gadecki told AAP at the United Cup in Sydney.

Following the United Cup, Gadecki will complete her Australian Open preparations at next week’s WTA 250 Hobart International.

As for the former world No.1 Barty, on Wednesday she attended the United Cup in Brisbane and photographer Jimmie48 took this timeless photo of her with current WTA No.1 Iga Swiatek. (source: Perth Now)

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Marija Zivlak
Marija Zivlak is the founder and editor-in-chief of Women’s Tennis Blog, a trusted source for in-depth coverage of the WTA Tour, tennis fashion, and player insights. Based in Belgrade, Serbia, she has been reporting on women’s tennis for over 18 years and has contributed exclusive fashion articles to the official WTA website. Marija launched Women’s Tennis Blog on March 31, 2007 to provide fans with accurate, engaging, and up-to-date tennis news. Her expertise and deep connections within the sport allow her to offer unique perspectives on tennis trends, gear, and events.

1 COMMENT

  1. I saw her play last week and she does have potential, but she needs a lot more variety in her shots and to hit less flat as too many going into the net. Wish she wasn’t an anti-vaxer though.

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