Well, to be fair, nobody anticipated this.
After her big retirement from professional tennis, Ashbarty announced her first career in a way no one could have anticipated.
The Australian star has revealed that she has turned her attention to making a range of children’s books.
The Courier-Mail first reported that the Batty series will be titled “Little Ashes” and will be based on the real-life experiences of the three-time Grand Slam champion on and off the tennis court.
Written and illustrated by Aboriginal creators Jasmin McGaughey and Jade Goodwin, the six-book series will be available for purchase from publisher HarperCollins in July.
“Today is the day of the tennis tournament and Ash is thrilled to be playing,” said a good line on the publisher’s website.
“But Ash forgot his favorite hat, got a flat tire, and Ash wonders how they got there! Will Ash get there in time for his big game?”
Barty’s five year old niece facilitated Barty’s transition from tennis player to writer.
“This project is very interesting and something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Barty.
“Lucy is my North Star. She’s the perfect age to understand stories and story lines and read chapter books.”
Reflecting on an opportunity to visit Uluru and live out a childhood dream ❤️ @codesportsau https://t.co/3fYvlYdlyj
— Ash Barty (@ashbarty) March 6, 2022
“It would be great to be able to read this book to her, and I would like to read it myself to kids in rural areas.”
Despite her retirement from tennis, 2022 looks set to be a big year for Barty as she also plans to write a biography while tying the knot with her longtime partner Gary Kissick.
Barty also showed his skills at the golf course last week when the 25-year-old won in a tournament in Brisbane.
Barty was at his peak before retiring, holding the world number 1 position and winning his third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, but believes he has fulfilled all his dreams.
