Happy little ‘Bartymite’! Vegemite announces name change in support of tennis star Ash Barty

It’s the iconic Aussie spread that everyone loves. But Vegemite has announced it is changing its name for a limited time to support a homegrown sporting star.

Iconic spread Vegemite is changing its name to ‘Bartymite’ in support of Australian tennis star Ashleigh Barty.

The limited edition Bartymite jars will be available from mid-October, as part of Vegemite’s ongoing sponsorship deal with the world No. 1.

Queensland-born Barty, 23, joked that her mother had ordered a “lifetime supply” of her namesake.

“I feel very special to have my own Vegemite jar and I can’t wait to see the limited-edition jars on the shelf,” Barty said in a statement.

A ‘Bartymite’ jar.

Ashleigh Barty and her ‘Bartymite’.

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“I’m not too sure who’s more excited — me or my family … I think Mum has pre ordered a lifetime supply!”

“Bartymite” will sold as 380g jars — featuring a special label and Barty’s signature — and available for purchase in supermarkets nationally. Barty will wear the Vegemite logo during the Australian summer tennis season, starting with next month’s Fed Cup in Perth.

“I’m a proud Vegemite kid and I couldn’t be happier to be continuing this relationship,” Barty said, of her deal with the brand.

Ashleigh Barty on the court in Beijing earlier this month. Picture: AP

“Vegemite is a reminder of home while I’m travelling … The chance to work with one of Australia’s most iconic brands for the third year is a dream come true.”

The announcement came days after Barty won Sport Australia Hall of Fame’s “The Don” award — a trophy named after cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman.

“It’s incredibly humbling,” Barty said of the honour.

“I don’t feel like I deserve to be mentioned in the same sentence as many of the legends here.

“It’s a really good celebration and appreciation of our sport all across the country and for me to be such a small part of that is amazing.”

Barty will contest the $20 million WTA Finals in Shenzhen from October 27, before leading Australia’s charge in next month’s Fed Cup from November 9.

Ashleigh Barty pictured at the Sport Australia Hall of Fame Gala in Melbourne last week. Picture: Getty Images