Ashleigh Barty is vowing to “stay in the moment” as the hype builds, after the 22-year-old’s first-time foray to a grand slam quarter-final at Melbourne Park.
Barty is within three tantalising wins of becoming Australia’s first Open singles champion in 41 years, after staging a stirring fightback to beat Maria Sharapova, in a drama-charged fourth-round encounter yesterday.
Barty overcame a nervy, error-riddled first set to defeat the five-time major champion and former world No.1…4 – 6, 6 – 1, 6 – 4 in a rousing performance at Rod Laver Arena.
She prevailed after two hours and 22 minutes amid unbearable tension, having blown a 4 – 0 lead in the deciding set.
Barty finally sealed victory on her fourth match point, with a huge ace down the middle.
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