Australian tennis player Ashleigh Barty has secured the top spot in the world tennis rankings after defeating Germany's Julia Görges 6-3, 7-5, in the final of the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham, Sunday.
Barty became the first Australian woman in more than four decades to take the top spot by winning her third title of 2019. Her idol and mentor Evonne Goolagong Cawley was the first in 1976, winning seven grand slams. The WTA rankings were introduced in 1973.
Japan's Naomi Osaka previously held the top spot but was struck down in the second round in Birmingham.
"It's been the most incredible journey for my team and me," Barty said on the court after her win, according to 10 Daily.
In late 2014, Barty took a hiatus from tennis to play cricket for the Brisbane Heat in the women's Big Bash League. She was back in tennis by 2016, and since then had been successful in her endeavors. She has succeeded in both singles and doubles titles on the WTA tour including the Grand Slam singles title at the French Open earlier this month.
Barty celebrated her victory over Görges, her doubles partner whom she considers "one of my best friends on tour," the BBC reports. Australia's best tennis players, Goolagong Cawley and Margaret Court, also celebrated Barty's No. 1 rank, which they both held.
"I am so proud that another Aboriginal player sits on top of the rankings in women's tennis, particularly a young lady who conveys such happiness in all she does," Goolagong Cawley said. Court, who won 24 grand slams, said the challenge for Barty was to stay at No. 1.
More good news for Barty, Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley believes that Barty could still win another grand slam title this year, that is if injuries are avoided.
Despite the fame and dominance, Barty has achieved in the sport; she continues to be one of the most likable and humble players both off and on the court. Australian tennis fans know better than anyone the disappointments that can sometimes come when money, social media, and youth collide in elite sport.
Barty maintaining her integrity and genuine interest in the sport throughout her meteoric rise is impressive. It signifies that no matter where success takes her, she is one of those people who can look back and say: her attitude is as stellar as her game.
Barty now heads to Eastbourne International for her last event before Wimbledon, which starts on July 1.
