Ash Barty, the former World No. 1 tennis player, has transitioned from the professional sports arena to a fulfilling life as a mother and community contributor. After announcing her unexpected retirement in March 2022 at the age of 25, Barty has embraced motherhood, marrying golfer Garry Kissick and welcoming two children, Hayden and Jordan. Her recent engagement with the community through Amazon Flex has showcased her desire to give back while navigating her new life.
A Day in the Life of a Former Champion
In December 2025, Barty took on a unique role by delivering packages for Amazon Flex, aiming to express gratitude towards delivery partners during the busy holiday season. She described one memorable encounter with a customer who was baking cheesecakes when Barty arrived at her door. “Halfway through our chat, she remembered the cakes and had to duck back inside and get them before they burned,” Barty recounted, reflecting on the joy of those interactions. This experience left her with a deep sense of appreciation for the work that goes into supporting the community during the holidays.
For Barty, the essence of her current journey lies in being present. “I’m pretty happy where I am right now to be able to enjoy this time with my kids,” she stated. Her focus on the moment resonates with many who feel the pressure of modern life, reminding them to cherish the fleeting time spent with loved ones. She expressed gratitude for her former tennis career while fully embracing the joy of motherhood. “I get to watch my kids grow up and develop into incredible humans,” she added.
Lessons Beyond the Court
Throughout her conversation, Barty shared invaluable life lessons that extend beyond sports. One of her primary insights is the importance of competing with oneself rather than comparing against others. Reflecting on her competitive spirit, she stated, “Now the only person I’ll ever compete with is myself.” This mindset allows her to maintain a healthy relationship with competition, whether it’s exercising or simply enjoying life’s daily challenges. “Part of it is having fun with the competition—can I go a little bit faster? Can I go a bit further?” she explained.
Despite her illustrious career, Barty remains grounded and focused on personal growth. Her interactions with emerging Australian tennis talents such as Maya Joint and Emerson Jones highlight her commitment to mentoring the next generation of athletes. She enjoys hitting the court with these young players, appreciating their journey and growth without the pressure of formal coaching responsibilities. “I love getting out on court and hitting with those girls… it’s amazing,” she noted, emphasizing the joy of sharing her passion without the formalities of coaching.
While Barty enjoys her new life, she acknowledges the importance of balance. When asked about indulgences post-retirement, she responded with a perspective shaped by her athletic background. “Everything in moderation. It’s all about balance,” she said, reinforcing the idea that enjoying life does not mean excess. Her approach encourages others to find joy in life while maintaining a healthy balance.
Barty’s connection to the Australian pub scene in New York City, specifically Old Mates Pub, illustrates her ongoing ties to her roots. The venue, designed to replicate the vibe of a traditional Australian pub, has garnered attention from both locals and expatriates. While she did not elaborate on her involvement, she expressed enthusiasm for the establishment, urging visitors to experience the comfort of home in a foreign city. “It’s the best Aussie pub you’ll find in New York City,” she assured, highlighting the authentic atmosphere that makes it special.
As she navigates motherhood, community engagement, and personal growth, Ash Barty exemplifies the idea that life can have multiple chapters, each filled with its own opportunities and lessons. Her journey is a reminder of the importance of being present, competing with oneself, and finding balance, inspiring many to embrace their own paths with enthusiasm and grace.
