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

Ashleigh Barty stunned one and all with her shocking retirement earlier today. The 25-year-old was in the form of her life and at the top in women’s singles. However, recently, she skipped the ‘Sunshine Double’ owing to health issues. This might have been one of the reasons behind this heart-breaking news for the tennis fraternity.

The entire tennis world was caught in disbelief as the Australian hung up her boots. Her fellow players reacted to this shocking announcement from Barty.

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Tennis stars react as Ashleigh Barty announces her retirement

Barty’s fellow players like Simona Halep, Andy Murray, and others took to social media to congratulate the Australian on her wonderful tennis career. Two-time Wimbledon champion, Petra Kvitova said, “Ash, I have no words… actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best!”

Further, three-time Grand Slam champion, Andy Murray said, “Happy for Ashleigh Barty, gutted for tennis. What a player.”

Additionally, Shelby Rogers went on to say, “What a legend. Incredible inspiration on and off the court. One of the best human beings I’ve ever met. Our number 1! Best of luck.”

Further, congratulating Barty on an amazing career, Karolina Pliskova said, “Congrats on an incredible career Ash. It was a privilege to share a court with you. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter, Ashleigh Barty. You will be missed.”

Moreover, Simona Halep went on to say, “Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What’s next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo.”

Additionally, Madison Keys, Dylan Alcott, Thanasi Kokkinakis also wished Barty on a great career.

Further, legendary tennis coach, Darren Cahill, said, “An incredible role model for so many not only in our sport, and she’s always gone about her career in her own special way. Well done, Ash. A true Aussie legend.”

Australian Open and WTA also join in to congratulate Barty

The Australian Open, on their official Twitter handle, wished Barty on a great career. “A career that has inspired the world. Thank you, Ashleigh Barty, for everything. We wish you the best in your retirement, and we’ll always be here cheering you on for the next chapter. Forever a champion,” read the statement.

Further, the WTA commented on Barty’s Instagram post, saying, “Thank you for being an incredible ambassador for this sport and for women around the world. We will miss you so much, Ash.”

Moreover, Australian legend, Samantha Stosur, went on to say, “Congrats for all you have achieved Ash. Incredible career! Like Case said- you’ve always done it your way so good for you to follow your heart and once again do it your way with this decision. Can’t wait to hear what is next for you but in the meantime enjoy retirement!”

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There will be a huge void created by Barty with her retirement. It might have not been an easy decision for World Number 1 to hang up her boots. Nonetheless, we wish her all the very best for the future endeavors in her life.