Australian tennis sensation Ash Barty has called an early end to her 2021 season in preparation for the Australian summer.
The world number one hasn’t played since her early exit from the US Open in September and will now prepare for her Australian Open campaign.
She has chosen not to undergo another stint in hotel quarantine to compete in the 2021 WTA Finals, which will be held in Mexico in November.
It’s been another successful season for the 25-year-old, who won Wimbledon earlier this year and is guaranteed to finish 2021 as the world number one again.
“I wanted to let everyone know that I won't be competing in any further tournaments in 2021, including the WTA Finals in Mexico,” Barty said in a statement on Saturday.
“It was a difficult decision but I need to prioritise my body and my recovery from our 2021 season and focus on having the strongest pre-season for the Australian summer.
“With ongoing challenges of travelling back to Queensland and quarantine requirements, I am not willing to compromise my preparation for January.
“I wish the WTA team and the players all the best for a successful WTA Finals and the rest of the year.”