Tennis legend Ash Barty gives back to the community with latest honour

Tennis great Ash Barty’s newest honour is unlike any other. Rather than having a statue built in her name, the sporting legend has given back to her hometown with a tennis-themed playground for families and children to enjoy for years to come.

The Ash Barty Playground, designed with the help of Barty herself, features a half tennis court and rebound wall, where children can practice their tennis skills just as Barty did when she was growing up. From the air, the park’s winding paths form the shape of a giant tennis ball, serving as the perfect tribute to Barty’s incredible journey to a world-renowned tennis champion.

In addition to the tennis features, the park offers nature play areas, shaded seating, an extended playground, and gardens, creating a perfect space for kids and families to gather and enjoy the outdoors.

Barty shared her excitement about the project, expressing how eager she is for families to experience and enjoy the “beautiful new space.”

“Encouraging children to be active and play is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait for local families, including my own, to visit this beautiful new space,” Barty said.

“Being able to work with the Queensland Government and other project partners to create a park and playground for local families to enjoy is special and I want to thank the government for giving me this opportunity.

“I have always loved my home and being part of the Springfield community.”

 

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A post shared by Ash Barty (@ashbarty)

Fans were quick to share their admiration for Barty’s latest achievement.

“How fantastic! Love that it resembles a tennis ball,” one wrote.

“Love this!”

“That’s so amazing and special!! Well done!!” commented another.

“The world needs more of this.”

In addition to her latest honour, Barty recently revealed some exciting personal news: she and her husband, Garry Kissick, are expecting their second child.

In a heartwarming Christmas message shared on Instagram, Kissick broke the exciting news.

“Merry Christmas from our growing family to yours!” he wrote.

Accompanying the message was an adorable photo of the couple’s first child, Hayden, wearing a shirt that read: “I’m going to be a big brother.”

 

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A post shared by Garry Kissick (@gazlfc90)

Fans wasted no time in congratulating Barty and her family on the “wonderful” news with well-wishes pouring in from across the country.