October 23, (THEWILL) – After ending her season early due to quarantine rules she would have to face upon her return home, world number one Ashleigh Barty will not defend her WTA Finals title next month, nor will she compete again in 2021.
The Australian will not compete in this year’s event in Guadalajara, Mexico, because she does not want to “compromise” her preparation for the Australian Open in January.
In her statement, Barty said: “It was a difficult decision. But I need to prioritise my body and my recovery from our 2021 season and focus on having the strongest pre-season for the Australian summer.
“With the ongoing challenges of travelling back to Queensland and quarantine requirements, I am not willing to compromise my preparation for January. My focus is now on the Australian summer and doing everything I can to win the Australian open.”
Barty has not played since losing in the third round of the US Open in early September, despite winning five titles in 2021, including Wimbledon. After returning to Brisbane from the US Open in September, the Wimbledon champion spent two weeks in quarantine.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
