Ash Barty used to silence crowds with blistering backhands and cold-blooded drop shots. These days? She’s silencing crying babies in the middle of the night—and loving every second of it.
Since walking away from tennis in her prime, the former world number one has done something that seems almost impossible for elite athletes: she’s disappeared from the spotlight on purpose. No tell-all documentaries, no scandalous confessions, no reality show deals. Instead, Ash Barty has been quietly crafting a new identity—and fans are now starting to piece it together.
And the internet is obsessed.
First came the whispers about her low-key wedding to Garry Kissick—no designer gown reveal, no tabloid frenzy. Just two people, in love, tying the knot away from the chaos. Then came the big news that truly shocked fans: in July 2023, Ash became a mum to baby Hayden. Cue the collective awwwws.
But Barty’s post-tennis life hasn’t been all lullabies and late-night feeds. She’s been active in causes she’s passionate about—especially youth development and Indigenous Australian empowerment. Her foundation continues to grow, and her children’s book, My Dream Time, turned into a bestseller practically overnight.
What makes it all so fascinating? Barty has managed to walk away from fame without burning out or fading into oblivion. She’s become a symbol of balance in an age of burnout. No scandals. No comebacks. Just a woman doing life her way—calmly, joyfully, and with the same fierce focus that once won her Grand Slams.
The message? Ash Barty’s story didn’t end with her last match. It’s still being written—quietly, beautifully, and far away from the noise of centre court.
And if you ask her fans, they’ll tell you: this version of Ash might just be the most inspiring one yet.
