Ashleigh Barty set to return at Indian Wells following Australian Open victory

World No.1 Ashleigh Barty has confirmed she will be returning to the tennis courts at the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells tournament, which will take place in California from March 7-14, 2022.

The 25-year old finally realized her dream and that of millions of Australians when she lifted the Australian Open title last month, becoming the first female Aussie to accomplish this feat in 44 years. Barty was initially expected to make her return to action at this week’s St Petersburg Open, but she decided to skip the WTA 500 event on the back of her Australian Open exertions.

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The Indian Wells Masters is the next major event penciled in with organizers confirming in a statement that the three-time Grand Slam winner has signed up. Barty missed last year’s rescheduled tournament in October after opting to end her 2021 campaign early following several months away from her family.

“Indian Wells is definitely at the top of the list when it comes to favorite stops on tour,” said the three-time Grand Slam champion.

“The tournament team does a fantastic job looking after the players and putting on a great event for fans. My team and I were disappointed to miss the October event but we look forward to returning in March.”