Retirement is a monumental decision for any tennis player. While specific factors might contribute to this choice, the challenges of reversing it or handling public scrutiny can be overwhelming. Danielle Collins, who’s approaching retirement soon, has over and over admitted that dealing with “many tone-deaf people has been frustrating at times”. A similar scenario unfolded for Ashleigh Barty, to which she responded with immense frustration.

On Wednesday, exactly three years after her Wimbledon triumph over Karolina Pliskova, Barty made a return to Centre Court for an exhibition doubles match. She teamed up with Casey Dellacqua to play against Andrea Petkovic and Magdalena Rybarikova. Her appearance inevitably sparked speculation about a potential comeback.

As soon as her exhibition match commenced, Barty started facing numerous questions from the media about the possibility of her comeback. However, despite the excitement surrounding her comeback gesture, Barty remained firm on her decision to keep out. She responded humorously yet firmly after being frustrated by the repeated inquiries. “You guys are killing me! Anyone have a thesaurus for a word that I can use for ‘no?’ No. Did you ask anyone else? Just picking on me. No mate, No I’m not,” the former WTA star said.

Having amassed three Grand Slam titles and reached the pinnacle of women’s tennis, Ash Barty stunned the world by retiring at just 25. Despite the passage of over two years, Barty shows no signs of returning to professional tennis. Barty, who expanded her family with the birth of a son a year ago, firmly stated that she is not interested and enjoys WTA players like Iga Swiatek doing well on court instead.“I really enjoy watching others do well,” Barty said. 

This situation drew a direct parallel to the experiences of American WTA star Collins. The Veteran announced her retirement this year but continues to face similar questions about reconsidering her decision. She seemed to be quite disappointed while coming in with a response, “I think society and even the people who follow my life closely have had a difficult time accepting the fact that I’m retiring, and it’s really bizarre,” she said.

Given her repeated statements about pursuing passions beyond tennis, she now appreciates the ability to carefully choose her involvements. “I love tennis. I love being here. I love being involved. Now, I just get to pick and choose in small doses.”

Ashleigh embraces her slot in the commentator’s box

Ash Barty’s commentary debut at 2024 Wimbledon has been met with resounding enthusiasm from fans. Teaming up with Nick Kyrgios for the BBC, the Australian duo has already captured viewers’ attention with their insightful analysis. Barty, who made her Wimbledon return on opening day alongside Johanna Konta, has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for her commentary skills. During the recent interview, the Australian stated how she enjoys her commentator gig at the BBC’s coverage of Wimbledon.

“I’ve got a beautiful commentary box on both Centre and Court 1. You get a good view and are able to absorb what’s happening out on the court. Hopefully people at home are enjoying what I’m having to say. I don’t know whether I’m right, wrong or indifferent, but I’m enjoying it as well,” she said, after enjoying the perks of being in a box that allows a fine view.

It has been a while since Ashleigh Barty marked her way out of the sport. As she has thrashed the questions regarding her comeback, fans can only expect to see her exhibition events plus her commentary.