Ash Barty left tennis at the peak of her career. This is what she traded the world stage for.

When Ash Barty announced her retirement from professional tennis in 2022, the world was stunned.

A reigning world No. 1, with Grand Slam titles and Olympic glory, she stepped away from a career at the very peak. Yet for Barty, the transition felt natural.

"It felt like it was seamless because I felt super ready to make the change," she told Mamamia.

"I'm still learning every day and discovering what I want to do more of, but overall I feel happy, fulfilled and grateful."

Retirement has given Barty the chance to reframe what "winning" looks like.

Soon after announcing her retirement, she and husband Garry welcomed their first child, Hayden, on 3 July 2023. Little Jordan joined their growing family in June 2025.

Ash Barty and her husband Garry, are parents to two young boys. Image: Instagram/@ashbarty.

For Barty, life is no longer about trophies or rankings but about the small, meaningful moments in the everyday.

"A good day means the kids — and I — have had a good night's sleep," she said with a laugh.

"If it's a beautiful sunny day, we all go for a walk with the dogs first thing in the morning. I spend some time with the people that I love, and maybe watch some of the Ashes or the golf on TV. The simple things really do give me the most enjoyment."

It's a striking shift from the intensity of elite sport to the quiet joys of family, routine, and connection. Even though she's left professional competition behind, some of that drive hasn't disappeared entirely.

"There are elements that I miss," she admitted. "The thrill of the fight and the tactical discussions with my coach are two of the big things. But my life now is amazing, I wouldn't change a thing."

That competitive spark has transformed into a desire to give her best in other areas — motherhood, philanthropy, and creating a balanced, happy home life.

Central to that balance is spending time outdoors; a habit that shaped Barty long before she held a racket professionally.

"Starting our day with a morning walk is important for all of us," she said. "

Outdoor activity isn't just about exercise; it's about family connection, mental wellbeing, and setting routines that her children can carry into adulthood.

And with hours in the sun comes the responsibility of sun safety, which is a value Barty learnt early.

"Growing up in Queensland, I've been conscious of sun exposure from a young age as it can be sunny here year-round," she explained.

"Mum and Dad were firm on good habits when I was young and that has stayed with me.

"Playing tennis made me very aware of looking after myself in the sun as well. Tennis is a sport where you chase summer all around the world. Applying sunscreen and taking additional measures to be sun safe, such as wearing a hat and sunglasses, have been habitual for me from a young age."

Even during her professional career, sun protection was an essential part of her daily routine.

"I always applied sunscreen regularly, wore a hat on court, and drank plenty of water. I tried to schedule training for early in the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day and took regular breaks from being in the sun," she noted.

Now, as a parent, Barty is instilling the same habits in her children.

"My parents taught my sisters and I about sun safety when we were very young, and I'm now sharing those same habits with my kids," she shared.

Her advocacy extends beyond her own family. Barty has worked with the Banana Boat Sun Safe Schools Program for several years, helping to educate children about the importance of sun protection.

"A common thing I think people can underestimate is the UV on an overcast day. Harmful rays can still penetrate cloud cover, so it's not just about how hot it feels. It's good to get into the habit of staying protected whenever you're outside," she said.

For Barty, sun safety is both personal and public — a practical lesson rooted in experience and a commitment to helping others.

Beyond the practicalities of sun care, Barty emphasised creating an environment of happiness and wellbeing.

"Every day is different, and some days are easier than others – I try to enjoy the small things and make the most of each day. Being kind to yourself is very important as a mother," she explained.

Time outdoors, family walks, and shared activities are all ways she cultivates joy, balance, and resilience for herself and her children.

Looking forward, Barty is excited about the future, both personally and professionally.

"Watching my kids continue to grow and develop is my greatest joy," she said. "Continuing our work with the Ash Barty Foundation is also something that excites me and gives me great fulfilment. I can't wait to do more projects in 2026."

For Barty, life after tennis isn't about slowing down — it's about redirecting energy toward what matters most: family, community, and leaving a positive legacy.

At the heart of her philosophy is a set of values she hopes her children will embrace: respect, kindness, curiosity, and courage.

"Treat people the way you would like to be treated, be respectful, kind and happy. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself and try new things," she said.

Feature image: Supplied.