Ash Barty explains Disney obsession and says she’s ready for a few beers after shock loss
As Ash Barty’s stellar run comes to an end at Wimbledon, the Aussie number one plans to mark her stunning rise with some beers - and possibly a Disney movie or two.
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Ash Barty has opened up about that Disney obsession, which has the world talking, and claimed she would have a couple of beers after her first loss in months.
Barty’s Wimbledon dream ended at the hands of American Alison Riske in the fourth round of the tournament.
The Aussie number one, who hadn’t lost a match since May after cruising through the French Open and winning at Birmingham in a lead up tournament to Wimbledon, said she would move on quickly.
She was also asked about her tendency to quote Disney films at Wimbledon.
During the tournament, she referenced “Hakuna Matata” from The Lion King, “To infinity and beyond” from Toy Story and “I I think the seaweed is always greener in someone else’s lake” from The Little Mermaid during responses to questions during press conferences at Wimbledon.
“Well it’s caused a little bit of interest hasn’t it? It was a way for us to enjoy it and try bring a little bit more energy to the press,” she said.
“I love Disney I watch it all the time and it’s just been a bit of fun for all of us and you guys caught on the third time around.”
Barty said it was “incredibly tough” to lose but “the sun is still going to come up tomorrow”.
The 23-year-old said she would have a break after Wimbledon, and maybe a beer with her team.
“There might be a beer or two,” she said, smiling.
Barty currently holds the world number one ranking after a stellar 2019.
She is the first Australian woman since Evonne Goolagong Cawley to be on top of the world, who earned the title in 1976.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley, who was watching Barty courtside, said the Queenslander had been a great ambassador for the game.
“Fantastic, not only just for women’s tennis for tennis in general,” he said.
“She encourages and motivates the young kids to get out there and have a hit, there’s already been an uptick in participation and we expect that to continue.”
stephen.drill@news.co.uk