Kim Clijsters Eyes Ash Barty’s Return at Wimbledon Legends Event

‘Who knows?’ Barty Wimbledon return sparks big comeback question

Kim Clijsters, renowned for her successful comebacks in tennis, is eagerly watching 2021 Wimbledon champion Ash Barty as she participates in the Legends event at the All England Lawn Tennis Club this week.

The Belgian star, who won three Grand Slams including the Australian Open after a two-year hiatus, is thrilled at the prospect of sharing the court with Barty once the rain delays at Wimbledon clear.

Despite Barty and her close circle insisting she has no plans for a full return, her presence at Wimbledon has excited tennis fans and former players. She is set to appear alongside her close friend Casey Dellacqua.

Clijsters, whose own comeback began with training for exhibition matches, speculated whether Barty might feel inspired to return to professional tennis. Barty won Wimbledon in 2021, matching the achievement of her idol Evonne Goolagong from 1971.

Reflecting on the path of 2018 Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki, who used the 2023 Legends event as a springboard for a return to the tour, Clijsters remarked, “It’s exciting to have Ash playing on the Legends tour. I hope she might be triggered by the challenge and adventure of returning to the tour.”

Barty’s long-time coach Craig Tyzzer shared an anecdote about Barty’s recent request for a training session, which he initially thought hinted at a comeback. However, he learned it was just for the Legends doubles, easing his concerns. “With Ash, you never know, but she’s pretty adamant she’s never coming back. She is super busy with her family now,” Tyzzer said.

Barty, who retired in March 2022, has been practicing with Dellacqua in preparation for the Legends event. Dellacqua commented, “She’s playing really well and feeling good. She has a lot of commitments, including being a parent.”

Clijsters acknowledged that the decision to return to professional tennis is deeply personal and requires full commitment. “I understand, having retired young myself, how it feels to be looked at as a huge talent with expectations and pressure. It will be interesting to see what Ash decides. I hope to play against her and have a chat to understand her thoughts,” she said.