Billie Jean King says she’s disappointed Ash Barty retired

Tennis legend Billie Jean King says she doesn’t agree with the notion of going out on top.

Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Billie Jean King at the 2023 Australian Open. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

Tennis legend Billie Jean King admits she’s disappointed Ash Barty retired, saying she doesn’t agree with the notion of going out on top.

“I was very upset she retired, she’s a great athlete but more importantly I do want her to be happy,’’ King said.

“She’s so young, she’s great for the sport.

“I think people should not be encouraged to go out on top.

“Bill Bradley, he was a basketball player, had a book out and I wish I’d read it before I retired. He talked about sport’s like a lifetime and you should play as long as you can... it’s like a life.”

King said when she initially retired in 1975 at age 32 it was a mistake.

She said she has much admiration for women’s semi-finalist Victoria Azarenka who has returned after having a son.

“She’s persistent and loves the sport, being older she’ll appreciate more what’s happening,’’ King said.

She also recalled her last visit when she attended the Women’s World Cup cricket final in 2020 before Covid hit.

“That was amazing and something I’ll never forget,’’ King said.

On Thursday King joined members of the Original 9 as special guests at the AO Inspirational Series at Zinc, Federation Square.

Bruna Papandrea, Asher Keddie, Mary Coustas. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

Eden Bruce and Renae Stubbs. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

Jayne Hrdlicka and Alicia Molik. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

Sam Stosur and partner Liz Astling. Picture: Fiona Hamilton

Other guests included actor Asher Keddie, producer Bruna Papandrea, comedian Mary Coustas, Lord Mayor Sally Capp and tennis players Alicia Molik, Casey Dellacqua, Rennae Stubbs, Nicole Pratt and recently retired Sam Stosur.

“All I had today was toast, I’ll have a big meal soon,’’ she said.

“I’ve had lots of lovely messages from friends and my peers who are also competitors so it’s been quite overwhelming.”