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Ashleigh Barty, the world number one, startled the tennis world on Wednesday when she announced her early retirement from the sport at the age of only 25. Barty made the announcement just weeks after becoming the first Australian Open champion in 44 years, joining tennis royalty's most exclusive club by winning a Grand Slam title on three different surfaces. "Today is a sad and emotional day for me as I announce my retirement from tennis," she stated in an Instagram video.

Barty expressed her gratitude for "all this sport has given me" in a heartfelt video message with her close friend and former doubles partner Casey Dellacqua.

"I'm overjoyed and prepared, and I just know in my heart that this is the right thing to do at this time." I'm grateful for all tennis has given me; it has allowed me to achieve all of my goals and more.

"But I realise it's time for me to move on and pursue other goals, so I'm putting down the racquets."

Barty has been the world number one for over two years and has won three Grand Slam singles titles: the French Open in 2019, Wimbledon in 2021, and the Australian Open this year.

"Thank you for being a tremendous advocate for this sport and for women all across the world," the Women's Tennis Association tweeted. "We'll miss you terribly, Ash."

Barty quickly rose to the top of the tour, with her dazzling array of slices, precision serving, and flawless forehand typifying her all-round game.

She got engaged late last year to long-term boyfriend Garry Kissick, who was always by her side on the court and frequently sent supporting messages on social media.