Ashleigh Barty is understandably delighted with life right now. She has just beaten Madison Keys 6-3 7-5 at the French Open to advance to the first Grand Slam semi-final of her career.
The Australian, 23, has also ensured that she will be ranked No.4 in the world or higher when the updated rankings are released next Monday.
“It’s incredible,” Barty said in her press conference. “My team and I have approached this clay court season a little bit differently to others. I have really enjoyed it and embraced it and have been playing some pretty good tennis.”
It is surprising that the Australian’s first appearance in the last four of a Grand Slam will be on clay, but it speaks volumes about the improvements she is continually making.
“Ultimately I feel like when I’m able to play my game and my kind of tennis, I can match it with everyone regardless of what surface it’s on,” Barty said.
Barty thrilled with her progress
The Australian famously took a break from tennis to play cricket in the Women’s Big Bash League with Hobart Hurricanes, but she is delighted with how things have gone since she returned to the sport in 2016.
“It’s remarkable,” she said. “It feels like just yesterday that we started, jumped on the plane to come over here and start again. So much has happened in between.”
Barty continued, “I have grown as a person and obviously as a player. I have had some heart-breaking moments. I have had some amazing moments. But I have enjoyed every single minute.”
“I haven’t had ounce of regret. Coming back was my decision, we did it my way, and it’s paying dividends.”
Barty excited about the state of women’s tennis
Barty is not just excited about her own progress. She recognises the achievements of the other semi-finalists and seems genuinely pleased about how well they are doing.
“It’s amazing for women’s tennis,” she said. “I think the other three girls in the semi-finals are playing incredible tennis. Even though it’s the first time for a few of us, you can’t take anything away from them. They have played amazing tennis.”
The Australian is excited to face Amanda Anisimova in the last four, but she is understandably wary after the American teenager’s stunning win over Halep.
“The way Amanda must have played must have been incredible,” Barty said. “I haven’t seen much of her in general. I haven’t played against her. So it’s a clean slate for both of us and an exciting opportunity for all four of us in the semis.”
