Ash Barty has announced a completely new career change after retiring from professional tennis.
The former World No.1 announced her retirement in a video interview on Instagram on March 23, thanking those who supported her along the way.
After announcing that she will be writing a book series titled Little Ash as well as a memoir to be released later in the year, Ash revealed she will head to the US to play professional golf.
The 25-year-old will head over to the US to play in the Icons Series which will take place at the Liberty National course in New Jersey.
Ash has already been spoken highly of by Icons Series chief executive Thomas Brookes.
“She’s absolutely terrific,” he told Fairfax.
“She did a range session with Ian Poulter, who is one of our future captains in September when she was at the US Open, and she had not hit a golf ball for a while. Ian said, ‘just hit a few balls and we’ll see how you go’.
“She hit this ball, I don’t know how far. And he turned around and said, ‘you’re having me on. Let’s just take it a bit deeper. Can you do me a high fade?’ And she did a high fade. Then he said, ‘can you do me a low draw?’ And she did a low draw.
“He said, ‘oh my goodness, you are something else’. She’s got those skill sets within her locker. With a bit of practice she can get lower than a three or four handicap. I know she’s really, really excited to be playing in New York and she’s also really keen to bring the concept to Australia.”
Ash will be captained by Ernie Els and will play in the inaugural nine-hole team match alongside boxer Carnelo Alvarez, Manchester City soccer manager Pep Guardiola and Tottenham striker Harry Kane.
“I’m excited to be part of the Icons Series and I hope through my participation in the series that we can encourage more women and girls to participate in golf around the world,” Ash said.
She hopes all Aussie fans in New York and New Jersey will come out and cheer her and her teammates on.
Image: Instagram
This article first appeared on OverSixty.