The first person Ash Barty embraced after clinching match point to win her breakthrough Australian Open singles title was Casey Dellacqua – and the words that followed spoke volumes of the friendship they treasure.
Moments after conquering American Danielle Collins 6-3 7-6 (7-2) at Rod Laver Arena, Barty made a beeline for Dellacqua, a former doubles partner and a dear friend.
Delacqua’s commentary duties with Nine’s Wide World of Sports had her in the perfect position to soak up the home grand slam triumph – and Barty celebrated the moment with an emotional hug and kiss on the forehead.
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“I didn’t even show that much emotion when I played,” Dellacqua said with a laugh as replays rolled through of her whirlwind courtside ride.
“Ash knows absolutely how proud I am of her,” added the Australian tennis great in a panel chat further into the celebrations, moments before a bucket of ice-cold beers were planted on the desk.
“Everyone thinks I’ve done it for Ash but I cannot explain what Ash has done for me. I don’t take that for granted for one minute.
“And I’m just so proud of her, she’s just a bloody legend and she’s a great friend and I’m just so grateful and lucky to have her.”
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Panel cracks the beers in toast to Barty glory
What followed was a beautiful tribute from Barty to Dellacqua.
“I’ll tell you what, there wouldn’t be any other person that I’d want sitting literally direct across from me when I’m on the court,” Barty said.
“I was trying not to look at Case. I’m looking around trying to look anywhere but at Casey, but just knowing that if I needed anything – not even that there is anything to give other than the support of being there.
“Case – she changed my life, she brought me into this sport again and allowed me to explore and grow as a person.
“I love her.”
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