Ash Barty’s hilarious interview moment after $6.4 million win
Ash Barty has triumphed at the WTA Finals, allowing her to secure a cash prize of AU$6.4 million – the biggest cheque in tennis history.
The 23-year-old took to the podium to claim her prize and give her speech after defeating defending champion Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-3 on Sunday night.
“Congratulations to Elina and your team, you’ve had an exceptional year, you’re one of the toughest competitors on the tour and I know we’ll have many, many more battles in the future so congratulations to you and your team,” Barty said.
However, she made a slip of the tongue when addressing the Chinese city of Shenzhen, where the tournament was held.
“Thank you to the s**tty ... ah, the city of Shenzen,” Barty said, before recovering and thanking the “spectacular crowd”.
“It’s just been a crazy year, it really has,” she said.
“It feels like it’s been a year that just hasn’t stopped … at times it felt like a circus going around and around. To cap it off with a very, very special night tonight in Shenzhen is really cool.”
Following the WTA, Barty is set to compete at the Fed Cup final in Perth as part of the Australian team.
“This Fed Cup final is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. I can’t wait to get to Perth in the next couple days and then start preparing for what will be the most perfect way to end a season – playing for your country,” said Barty.
“For myself, to play in front of my friends and family, representing Australia, wearing the green and gold, there’s absolutely nothing better.”