Ash Barty looking forward to experiencing Australian Open from different perspective

Tennis champion Ash Barty admits it feels bizarre not preparing to defend her Australian Open title but says she has a new focus.

Tennis champion Ash Barty admits it feels bizarre not preparing to defend her Australian Open title but she’s looking forward to experiencing the grand slam next month from a different perspective.

The Aussie star who retired in March walked the blue carpet at tennis’ awards night, the Newcombe Medal, at Crown alongside husband Garry Kissick.

“I’m focused now on being Aunty Ash and it’s Christmas time with the kids,” Barty said.

“It’s obviously going to feel a little bit bizarre but I’m excited to be back down here for the Australian Open. It’s a great time of year but now I get to see it from the other side.

“For a lot of us this night is a celebration of community, there’s so many cogs in the chain. It’s also for my team, celebrating my team and acknowledging their efforts.”

Ash Barty and husband Garry Kissick at the Newcombe Medal. Picture: David Geraghty

Barty, among the nominees for the Newcombe Medal, said she was proud of other players’ efforts this year, particularly those of the Billie Jean King Cup team and her good friend Storm Hunter (nee Sanders).

“It was mixed feelings watching but I watched some of Storm’s singles matches and she’s very quickly become the spirit of the team,” Barty said.

“So many people were with me on the journey and rooting for me when I was lost.

“Nothing has really changed in my life, now I’m just not an international flight every few weeks.”

Barty was joined at the glamorous event by current players Thanasi Kokkinakis, Daria Saville, Hunter, Sam Stosur, Alex Bolt and past legends John Newcombe, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Todd Woodbridge, Neale Fraser, Frank Sedgman, Alicia Molik and Dylan Alcott.

Hunter, also a nominee, said Barty was still offering support.

Todd Woodbridge. Picture: David Geraghty

Dylan Alcott. Picture: David Geraghty

Sam Stosur. Picture: David Geraghty

“She’s definitely someone I look up to and if I have any questions I can always message her,” she said.

“She would always message and say well done and is always keeping tabs. Even though she’s retired still very much involved and she wants us to do well.

“For me she’s the deserving winner, to win the Australian Open is something we all dream of.”

Kokkinakis said he and doubles partner Nick Kyrgios would return to defend their Australian Open doubles title.

“I think it’d be rude not to, it was a hell of a fortnight,” he said.

“We haven’t really talked about it, we just assume we’re going to play. People love it.

“I’m confident, happy and healthy so that’s important.”