Former tennis world number one Ashleigh Barty will play in a golf exhibition tournament, organisers said Tuesday, fueling speculation that she could become a golfer after her shocking retirement.
The three-time Grand Slam champion stunned the tennis world when she stepped away from the sport in March, with the multi-talented 25-year-old coy about her plans.
The 25-year-old who will play in the Icon Series in July said: “It’s such a unique opportunity to have fun, test yourself and compete.
“I hope through my participation in the series that we can encourage more women and girls to participate in golf around the world.”
Barty, whose three Grand Slam singles titles include last summer’s Wimbledon crown, is a keen amateur golfer with a reported handicap of four.
Her father Robert represented Australia as an amateur and had considered attempting to turn professional himself.
Recall that Barty played professional cricket for Queensland and Brisbane Heat in 2015 during a break from tennis.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and 23-time Olympic champion Michael Phelps are among the other stars taking part.
