Ash Barty retires from Tennis

[one-eyed]

Cotchin’s advice for close friend Barty: Don’t take up footy

By Michael Gleeson and Peter Ryan
The Age
March 24, 2022

If Ashleigh Barty, or rather, the public, is wondering if the tennis champion should contemplate a third professional sporting career after retiring from tennis and switch to football, her friend, Richmond triple-premiership captain Trent Cotchin, has succinct advice.

“No!”

Cotchin has had long conversations with Barty, who is a lifelong Richmond fan, over the years about her career and life plans but was still taken aback by the reality of the moment when it finally came.

“I was not necessarily surprised, although you don’t necessarily believe it to be true until it happens,” Cotchin told The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.

“I did talk to her a number of times about this and life across a number of years, [but] I have left her be since yesterday morning knowing things are probably a little hectic.

“I’m incredibly proud of Ash, obviously of her achievements and getting the absolute best out of herself but more importantly her growth and willingness to live true to her values.

Tennis champion Ash Barty in the stands at the Gabba as her team, the Richmond Tigers, took on the Brisbane Lions in a qualifying final.

“She is one of the most humble and inspiring people that I have met, and I feel grateful to have learnt so much from her.”

https://www.watoday.com.au/sport/tennis/cotchin-s-advice-for-close-friend-barty-don-t-take-up-footy-20220324-p5a7gq.html

[Andyy]

I am sad she has retired.

Would also be a huge dive. Going from Wimbledon and #1 in the world to playing AFLW lol.

Anyway, hope she enjoys herself whatever it is.