HarperCollins UK has signed the memoir of Australian tennis star Ashleigh ‘Ash’ Barty who shocked the world of tennis by announcing her retirement at the age of 25 earlier this year. As yet untitled she says the book will be about “the power and joy of doing the thing you love and seeing where it can take you”.
HarperNonFiction publishing director Ajda Vucicevic acquired UK and Commonwealth rights, excluding Australia and New Zealand, as part of a global deal. An Australian deal was negotiated by Helen Littleton, head of non-fiction at HarperCollins Australia.
Barty won the hearts of tennis fans and beyond everywhere with her honesty, fairness and openness on and off court. She retired as the reigning Ladies Singles champion at Wimbledon and the Australlian Open, and is widely regarded as one of the world’s most accomplished players. She has also become a role model for young women.
She said: “The book is about finding the path to being the best I could be, not just as an athlete but as a person, and to explore how those identities overlap and compete. We all have a professional and a personal self. My story is about the importance of purpose – and perspective – in our lives. Publishing my memoir now allows me to reflect on the moments in my tennis life while they are fresh in my mind.”
At HarperCollins Vucicevic said: “Ash is one of the all-time greatest tennis players and athletes in the world. Not only is she supremely talented, she is also an inspiration and a role model to millions with her hard work, determination and a fair play attitude.
“We have loved watching her journey on the court and cannot wait for everyone to find out the real story behind her rise, her successes and the many challenges she has overcome to get to the top. And of course, what’s next in store for her.”
