Proud Ngarigo woman and former world number one tennis player Ash Barty has announced the arrival of her first child.
Barty and husband, professional golfer Garry Kissick, announced the birth of their son Hayden via social media on Tuesday evening, posting a picture of their "beautiful boy".
"Welcome to the world, Hayden!," the post's caption read.
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The 27-year-old's announcement prompted a wave of congratulatory messages including from the Australian Open account, describing the arrival of baby Hayden as "the greatest triumph", whilst the Wimbledon account touted the newborn as a future champion.
"Future Wimbledon champ? Congratulations!" it said.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tilley also sent his congratulations to the new parents, calling Hayden's arrival "wonderful news".
Barty first announced her pregnancy in January after shocking the tennis world by retiring from professional tennis in March, 2022 whilst holding the number one ranking.
She won three grand slams during a decorated career on the WTA tour, including the 2020 French Open, 2021 Wimbledon title and 2022 Australian Open.
Speculation has followed Barty post-retirement as to a possible comeback, however she has all but ruling out the prospect of a return to professional tennis.
"I'd say you never say never. I'd say the door is closed, but it's not padlocked," she said.
"I'm never one to absolutely say never, never, never. But, yeah, it feels like it's closed."
