Retired Australian tennis star Ashleigh Barty has opened up about the joys of motherhood, as she gave birth to her first child, Hayden.

The former World No.1 retired from tennis after her emotional win at the 2022 Australian Open, before marrying fiancé Garry Kissick and then announcing the birth of her son on social media in July 2023.

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Barty reveals how having a son has changed her life

"It's the best thing I've ever done, and hardest thing I've ever done,' Barty told News Corp. "Hayden is amazing, I feel so very lucky. Garry and I are really just enjoying what is a pretty quiet time together at home as a little family."

The 27-year old spoke on the bond she shared with her son, calling it 'incredible'.

"Having seen my sisters become mums, and spending so much time with their kids, I had some idea of how it would feel, but it's certainly at a different level when it's your own child, and they are completely dependent on you! It's pretty incredible," she admitted.

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"My hands are a little bit more full now but my morning walk is still my favorite part of the day, The pack of hounds and Hayden and I all out together and getting on with the day!"