Instead of lifting a trophy, Ash Barty’s second act started with a cupcake and a small hand around her finger. The former tennis champion made a discreet announcement about the birth of her daughter Jordan only a few weeks ago. Intimate but modest, the picture she posted online showed her with husband Garry Kissick, son Hayden, and infant Jordan seated around a table adorned with pastries and candles. She captioned it, “Cake for breakfast,” and a whole country let out a happy sigh.
| Full Name | Ashleigh Jacinta Barty |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 24, 1996 |
| Birthplace | Ipswich, Queensland, Australia |
| Partner | Garry Kissick |
| Children | Hayden (b. July 2023), Jordan (b. June 2025) |
| Profession (Former) | Professional Tennis Player, Cricketer |
| Grand Slam Titles | 3 (French Open 2019, Wimbledon 2021, Australian Open 2022) |
| Retirement | March 23, 2022 |
| Notable Honors | Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) |
| Reference | The Guardian |
The focus that previously followed Barty’s every serve has gradually shifted to her family life in recent days, exposing a rhythm that is remarkably similar to how millions of new parents adjust to life with two young children. Nearly two years after Barty left professional sports during her prime, Jordan was born in June 2025. That choice, which was incredibly successful in regaining personal space, is still talked about in sports circles.
Barty reaffirmed her decision to put presence above performance by announcing her daughter’s arrival without much fanfare. In a culture that frequently commodifies family milestones, this contrast feels especially welcome. Instead of planning a glamorous reveal, she chose to post a straightforward photo that was immediately loved. That picture—Hayden smiling softly, Jordan snuggling quietly—spoke louder than any press conference could.
Transitioning out of elite sport frequently causes identity disorientation for former athletes like Barty. She appears to have avoided that turbulence, though. Many professionals reassessed their priorities during the pandemic, and Barty found that the move toward family life felt natural. Many were shocked when she announced her retirement at the age of 25, but she gave a straightforward explanation: “I’ve given everything to this sport, and I’m ready to chase new dreams.” Jordan is the name of that dream, which is now remarkably vivid.
Barty’s candor about the chaos is what makes her motherhood journey so captivating. She has acknowledged in interviews that she is “terrified” about having two children under the age of two. She makes this admission, though, with a sense of humor that makes it less painful. “I was the most organized person once. Right now? “Absolute carnage,” she chuckled, a sentiment that new parents dealing with toddler tantrums and night feedings can really identify with.
She has forged a new path through calculated simplicity, one that is characterized by love rather than praise. Barty is embracing the moment, in contrast to certain athletes who make grandiose comebacks. Her fellow Grand Slam champion, Angelique Kerber, also recently became a mother, illustrating a common trend among top athletes who, for the time being at least, prioritize family over celebrity.
The partnership between Ash and Garry, which is particularly stable and grounded, has also been noteworthy. They got married in July 2022 after meeting in 2017, and they have since adopted a lifestyle very different from the red carpet. Professional golfer Garry has continued to provide unobtrusive support, frequently filling in during important family times. They appear to be more concerned with consistency than perfection in their parenting, which is especially helpful when raising two young children quickly after one another.
Back on Christmas Day, Barty posted a playful picture of Hayden sporting a T-shirt that read, “I’m going to be a big brother,” hinting at Jordan’s impending birth. Fans knew right away that something endearing was on the horizon. That quiet but charming announcement reflected Barty’s personality: firm, private, but never aloof.
Barty’s outlook has significantly changed since the beginning of her new chapter in life. By making links between her own experience and the generations of women who came before her, she has demonstrated a greater respect for her mother and sisters. She claimed that raising Hayden had given her a better understanding of the emotional toll and resilience required of parents. As impactful as any trophy speech, she reflected, “It’s the best, and hardest thing I’ve ever done.”
In addition to raising her kids, Barty is subtly encouraging a reevaluation of what success means through her constant attention and open communication. The energy she brings into her home, the trust she develops with her kids, and the joy she derives from everyday mornings are what matter now, not titles or rankings. Her choice to take a break, think, and care for herself has significance that goes well beyond tennis.
For now, Jordan is the center of peace in a household still getting used to double diapers and sibling dynamics, but her story may change over the next few years as she takes her first steps, attends school, and possibly participates in sports. Once commended for her poise under duress, Barty now finds that same mental toughness put to the test by life’s uncertainties rather than rivals.
Ash Barty is still a champion by accepting her current position wholeheartedly, but not in the traditional sense. Her admirers, who are particularly encouraging, keep up with her journey because she has emotional clarity rather than athletic skill. They applaud birthday cupcakes and baby giggles rather than aces. It is a distinct kind of legacy that is subtly influencing contemporary ideas about female agency, work-life balance, and families.
