Barty wanted to exit like Nadal: “That was my dream… to retire representing Australia”

Former world No 1 Ash Barty has said she wished to have retired in a similar way to Rafael Nadal, playing for her country. The Aussie watched Nadal’s farewell with envy.

Nadal called it a day in November this year, representing Spain at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, whereas Barty announced a shock retirement in March 2022, being the world No 1 and reigning Australian Open champion. But the former WTA star actually wanted to exit the racquet sport as the 22-time Grand Slam Spanish champion did.

“I love Rafa,” she told CODE Sports in a recent interview. “I liked the way Rafa retired. He wanted to represent Spain in a team environment. That was my dream, I wanted to retire representing Australia at a Fed Cup tie in Brisbane which did not eventuate. I know that feeling of celebrating your career with the people you love.

“It’s been such a beautiful celebration for him and his career. So many tributes from players and also other athletes around the world. It showed how much of a positive impact it had on sport and life in general.”

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