Ashleigh Barty set to return to Australian Open but not as a player

Ashleigh Barty played her last professional tennis match at the Australian Open this year when she defeated Danielle Collins in the final and despite retiring, she will be back at the event in 2023.

The 26-years-old Australian ended her WTA career after third Grand Slam triumph and she often emphasized, that her comeback is not realistic. However, she will be still present at the 2023 Australian Open, but not as a player.

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Barty will be active at the biggest Australian tennis event as the representative for the Marriott Bonvoy reward program.

"I was never going to run away, I promise. I was always going to be back," she said on the Today Show. "It wasn't something that it was close the door and never come return."

Talking more about what she will do at the opening Grand Slam of the 2023 season, the Australian said:

"No centre court, I will be working in the background doing my thing," she said. "But I certainly will be enjoying it, like everyone else. I can't wait, it's scary to think it's so close, it feels like a couple of sleeps and it will be here."

"But I am certainly excited for a big summer ... It's an incredible way to bring people to the Australian Open to help them experience it in just the most incredible fashion. Very excited to be part of the team once again and to hit with some fans."

"It's going to be fun, I think it will be a great way to bring people together," Barty said. "Obviously Melbourne during the Australian Open is crazy for the players and now I am excited to actually see what it is like on the other side. Experience the culture, the different way the city buzzes."

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