Ash Barty has always done things her own way—walking away from tennis at the top, dodging the spotlight, and building a peaceful post-retirement life. But just when we thought we’d seen the last of her graceful backhands and clutch Grand Slam moments, something truly unexpected just sent the internet into a spin.
A leaked video, believed to be from a private training facility in Queensland, has fans and pundits alike whispering one word: comeback. In the now-viral clip, a woman who looks eerily like Barty is seen hitting powerful forehands, working foot drills, and even trading serves with a professional-level partner. The kicker? She’s wearing her signature visor and wristbands—items she hasn’t been photographed in since her farewell tour.
While Barty herself has stayed silent on the footage, tennis Twitter didn’t hesitate to explode with theories. “She’s definitely sharpening her game,” one user wrote. “That’s not casual hitting. That’s Grand Slam prep.” Even former pros weighed in, with some speculating she may be aiming for a doubles return or a wildcard appearance at the 2025 Australian Open.
Her longtime coach, Craig Tyzzer, declined to confirm anything directly but dropped a cryptic hint in a recent interview: “Ash will always love the game. That’s all I’ll say for now.” Fans didn’t need more than that—cue the fire emojis and Instagram frenzy.
What’s most intriguing isn’t just the training itself, but the intensity behind it. This wasn’t leisure hitting for fitness; this was footwork, speed, precision—hallmarks of someone chasing elite form. It’s especially eyebrow-raising when you remember Barty retired citing a lack of physical and mental drive to continue competing.
Some believe the 3-time Grand Slam champion may have rediscovered her competitive hunger while mentoring juniors or commentating matches. Others think motherhood (which she openly discussed planning) has reignited a desire to inspire from the court again.
Whether she’s plotting a full return, a symbolic cameo, or simply relishing the game in private, one thing’s for sure—Ash Barty still moves like a champion. And in a world where tennis careers stretch far beyond their supposed prime, never say never.