Melbourne, Former World No.1 Ashleigh Barty on Saturday made a surprise appearance at Melbourne Park to deliver the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Trophy to Rod Laver Arena ahead of the Australian Open 2023 women's final.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 26-year-old Queenslander, who announced her sudden retirement last April, received a rousing ovation from the crowd as she strolled on to the court with the trophy she captured in inspired fashion 12 months ago.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Last year, Barty claimed her third and final major title by defeating Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6 in the final to become Australia's first homegrown champion in 44 years.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
With seven of the members of the Original 9 and her friend and mentor Evonne Goolagong Cawley watching from the stands, Barty flashed a wide grin and trademark wave to the crowd before making way for the night's combatants, No.5 Aryna Sabalenka and Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Last year, Barty claimed her third and final major title by defeating Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6 in the final to become Australia's first homegrown champion in 44 years.<\/p>\r\n\r\n