Ash Barty let out a thunderous roar immediately after clinching the Australian Open title on Saturday, highlighting the gravity of the historic moment.
Defeating American Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6(2), Barty became the first Australian since Chris O’Neil in 1978 to capture the Grand Slam title on home soil.
For the glory.For the record books.For the fans.@ashbarty | #AusOpenpic.twitter.com/gISF7nVHyt— wta (@WTA) January 29, 2022
For the glory.For the record books.For the fans.@ashbarty | #AusOpenpic.twitter.com/gISF7nVHyt
“As an Aussie, the most important part of this tournament is being able to share it with so many people,” Barty said following her win. “You guys today in the crowd have been nothing shy of exceptional.”
Adding to the emotions surrounding Saturday’s victory, Australian tennis icon and Barty’s friend and idol, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley, presented her with the championship trophy.
“This crowd is one of the most fun I’ve ever played in front of, and you guys brought me so much joy out here today,” Barty said. “You relaxed me and you forced me to play my best tennis, and against a champion like Danielle, I know I had to absolutely bring that today.”
The win gives Barty her third Grand Slam title, making her the second active player next to Serena Williams to win majors on all three surfaces.
“This is just a dream come true for me, and I’m so proud to be an Aussie,” she said.