Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 27, 2022 Australia's Ashleigh Barty waves at fans before her semi final match against Madison Keys of the U.S. REUTERS/Morgan Sette

March 23 (Reuters) - Following is reaction to Australia's world number one Ash Barty's retirement from professional tennis at the age of 25. read more

"I particularly want to say 'thank you' to you, Ash, for inspiring a generation of young people and particularly a generation of young indigenous people in this country.

"None of us will forget, of course, the triumphant win in Wimbledon and none of us will ever forget that incredible comeback down there at the Australian Open this year, which once again showed everybody what you can do when you really apply yourself."

"With her accomplishments at the Grand Slams, WTA Finals and reaching the pinnacle ranking of No.1 in the world, she has clearly established herself as one of the great champions of the WTA.

"We wish Ash only the very best and know that she will continue to be a tremendous ambassador for the sport of tennis as she embarks on this new chapter of her life. We will miss her."

"One of the highlights in my career was standing next to her after she won (the Australian Open) and I never would have thought that three months later we would have been having this conversation about Ash retiring.

"It's once in a lifetime that someone like Ash comes along. But whatever she does, she's going to achieve great things and we respect her decision."

"I'm so supportive of Ash, and making a decision that is best for her and makes her happy. I can't wait to see what the next chapter brings, and to watch Ash achieve her dreams post-tennis."

"Dear Ash - you are leaving the tennis and sports world quite speechless and full of praise at the same time.

"Enjoy this chapter of your life after tennis - we will miss you, your smile and your beautiful game. Be happy champ, the Hall of Fame is waiting!"

"Incredible career and person. Congrats on everything you've accomplished so far and everything you will accomplish in this next chapter! "

"You will be missed, ! You gave all your heart to our sport and inspired so many along your journey.

"You're stepping away from tennis as a true champion and on your own terms, simply following your own path, as you always have. Keep chasing your dreams, I know you will."

"Since I never trust a tennis retirement, does anyone else think will be back and what year? AO (Australian Open) 2024 is my guess."

"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."

"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?!"

"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!"

"Happy for , gutted for tennis. What a player."

"One of a kind. On and off the court. A wonderful role model for women's sport."

"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 ."

"Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you, mate."

"An incredible tennis player but more importantly one of the nicest people on tour. Congratulations on an amazing career and good luck with what's next!"

"Happy for you, to go out on your terms but the tennis world will miss a great champion.

"Love your elegant, athletic style of play and have always been impressed with the way you handle yourself on and off the court. Enjoy the next chapter."

Compiled by Manasi Pathak in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford and Nick Macfie

Source: Reuters

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