Australian Open 2020: Semi-final run in Melbourne ensures Ashleigh Barty will stay at No. 1 indefinitely
She may have fallen short in her Australian Open quest but Ash Barty won’t be troubled by anyone at the top of the world rankings for a while after extending her advantage.
Tennis
Don't miss out on the headlines from Tennis. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Ashleigh Barty’s Australian Open defeat has come with a silver rankings lining.
The Queenslander has extended her lead as world No. 1 to 2266 points over Simona Halep in the provisional standings.
Barty’s buffer is the equivalent of a grand slam title victory.
Watch over 50 sports LIVE on Kayo! Stream to your TV, mobile, tablet or computer. Just $25/month, cancel anytime. New to Kayo? Get your 14-day free trial & start streaming instantly >
The French Open champion has spent 28 weeks in total at No. 1 - a record by an Australian woman.
Barty’s Melbourne Park conqueror Sofia Kenin will move into the top 10 next week and could reach as high as No. 7 if she beats Garbine Muguruza.
Muguruza has climbed from No. 30 to No. 16 and could move to No. 11 if successful in the final.
Novak Djokovic will return to No. 1 if he lands a record eighth Open title.
Nick Kyrgios has returned to the top 20, rising six places after reaching the fourth round.
Alex de Minaur has slipped two places to No. 23 after missing the Open because of groin soreness.