Ashleigh Barty reflects on ‘truly incredible six months’ of 2021 season

Despite being ousted from the US Open in the third round, world number one Ashleigh Barty is still grateful for an astonishing season.

The Wimbledon champion did battle with home talent Shelby Rogers. The American was able to reverse her recent fate against Barty, having lost their first five meetings including four in 2021.

Rogers came out victorious 6-2, 1-6, 7-6 (7-5) to end the Slam season for Barty. While she was disappointed, the Australian is staying grounded.

“The last six months have been a rollercoaster,” Barty stated in her post-match press conference. “I think back to the very first match that I played on this trip. You know I was 5-2 down in the third set, in the first round of Miami. 

“Tennis has a funny way of evening things out doesn’t it? And I think that I’ve played a bunch of matches this year where I’ve come from a break down…or opponents trying to serve out the match.”

Barty has claimed five titles in 2021, including two WTA 1000s in Miami and Cincinnati, plus a maiden Wimbledon crown.

She has done it all while being away from her home in Australia since February, continuously on the road due to strict Covid restrictions should she return down under.

“You get to and fro, you can’t win every single tennis match that you play,” the 25-year-old added. “And I’m proud of myself, I’m proud of my team for all the efforts that we’ve put in over the last six months, it’s been absolutely incredible.

“I don’t think we could’ve asked for much more honestly. With all of the tough moments we have had, it’s created some of the most enjoyable experiences and I’ve learnt so much about myself.

“It’s been truly an incredible six months.”

Read >> US Open BREAKING NEWS

Watch >> US Open LIVE SCORES

Catch up >> US Open ‘Second Service’

Enjoy >> US Open LIVE COMMENTARY

Order >> US Open SPECIAL MAGAZINE

Follow >> Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube

Join >> Tennishead CLUB, the world’s only virtual tennis club