Who is Retired Tennis Star Ash Barty‘s Husband, Garry Kissick?
Ashleigh "Ash" Barty sent shockwaves through the sports world in March 2022 when she announced her retirement from professional tennis at just 25 years old. The Australian‘s decision to walk away from the game came just two months after she won her home Grand Slam at the Australian Open. At the top of her sport, Barty chose to leave tennis to pursue other dreams. Chief among them – spending her life with husband Garry Kissick.
Ash Barty‘s Brilliant Tennis Career
Barty‘s tennis resume is impressive for any player, let alone someone who retired in their mid-20s. She held the WTA‘s #1 world ranking for 114 consecutive weeks. Her trio of Grand Slam singles titles includes the 2019 French Open, 2021 Wimbledon, and 2022 Australian Open. In total, Barty won 15 singles titles and 12 doubles titles before retiring with over $23 million in career prize money.
Ranked #1 for 121 total weeks, Barty joins elite company among the top 25 longest-reigning female world #1 players ever. Her winning percentage of 82% in Grand Slam matches is among the very best too. Simply put, the young Aussie is one of the most accomplished and talented players of her generation.
| Career Accomplishments | Stats |
|---|---|
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | 3 |
| WTA Singles Titles | 15 |
| Career Prize Money | $23+ million |
| Peak WTA Ranking | #1 (121 total weeks) |
| Grand Slam Win % | 82% |
Meeting Her Future Husband
In 2016, during a hiatus from tennis, Barty began playing golf regularly at the Brookwater Golf Club near her home in Springfield, Queensland. It was there she met PGA trainee professional Garry Kissick through a mutual friend.
Kissick eventually began coaching and caddying for Barty when she competed in golf tournaments. The two also bonded over their shared loved of sport and laidback Aussie demeanors. As their friendship turned romantic, Kissick offered invaluable support as Barty returned to tennis.
Finding Balance With Garry‘s Guidance
Speaking about her future husband, Barty said Kissick‘s maturity and understanding gave her balance:
"He‘s extremely patient, extremely supportive…He‘s kind of the one that knows me the best and knows when I need support and when I don‘t. I‘m pretty low key, so I like the simple things."
Kissick encouraged Barty‘s diverse pursuits beyond tennis – like golf, cricket, volunteering, and designing a clothing line. He also respected her need for space and privacy during the pressures of her career.
Barty credits Kissick for making her feel like she wasn‘t "just a tennis player." His devotion gave her the foundation to reach #1.
Chasing New Dreams Together
After dating for five years, Barty and Kissick announced their engagement in November 2021. They were married earlier this year in a small private ceremony surrounded by family. Close friends describe Kissick as a "caring, protective guy who treats Ash with the utmost love and respect."
The happy newlyweds are currently building their dream home together in Brookwater near where they first met. The house features a large terrace, pool, and even a tennis court for Barty to stay sharp.
In 2023, they are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child – an amazing next chapter after all Barty‘s tennis success. It‘s clear this down-to-earth couple was meant for each other.
A Life Beyond Tennis
While Barty may pick up a racquet again recreationally, her professional tennis days seem behind her. She has spoken about plans to learn the guitar, devote time to her charity work, and share more of her Indigenous heritage.
Of course, raising children and supporting her husband‘s golf career will take priority now. Barty remains Australia‘s humble sweetheart who prioritizes happiness over fame and fortune. With Garry Kissick by her side, this tennis legend looks ready for whatever comes next.