Ash Barty, the three-time tennis grand slam champion, is set to make a comeback in the golf world, participating in the NZ Open pro-am. Barty, who has been focusing on her family life since retiring from tennis, is excited to get back on the course and dust off her golf clubs. She will be playing alongside DP World Tour player Anthony Quayle, a good friend and former tennis rival, at the prestigious Millbrook Resort. With a handicap of four, Barty is eager to showcase her skills and has been practicing with a custom Wimbledon Odyssey putter. The pro-am event, which is part of a $1.69 million tournament, now rivals the legendary Pebble Beach and St Andrews events. This year's lineup includes high-profile athletes like Kelly Slater, an 11-time surfing world champion, and Ricky Ponting, a former Australian Test cricket captain. Barty's return to golf is a refreshing change of pace, as she admits she hasn't played much golf in the past two years. However, her enthusiasm and natural talent suggest she will be a formidable competitor. The article also highlights the unexpected friendship between Barty and Quayle, who initially struggled to find common ground but eventually bonded over their shared love for the game. Barty's participation in the pro-am is a testament to her versatility and her ability to excel in multiple sports. With her competitive spirit and positive attitude, Barty is sure to make a splash in the golf world, even if she's just playing for fun.
