Number one WTA ranked player Ashleigh Barty’s 2021 season has come to a premature end after the Australian declared that she is not going to defend her title during the WTA Finals. She stated that her decision is related to taking care of her body and mind. Barty last played in the US Open, when her campaign got thwarted by Shelby Rogers in the Third Round. The current Wimbledon champion also said that she is going to stay in Australia to prepare for the next year’s Australian Open.
I wanted to let everyone know that I won't be competing in any further tournaments in 2021, including the WTA Finals in Mexico. "It was a difficult decision but I need to prioritize my body and my recovery from our 2021 season and focus on having the strongest pre-season for the Australian summer. With ongoing challenges of traveling back to Queensland and quarantine requirements, I am not willing to compromise my preparation for January. I wish the WTA team and the players all the best for a successful WTA Finals and the rest of the year.
Ashleigh Barty, Tennis player, Australia