"Today's the day" - Ashleigh Barty announces release of 'Little Ash' children's book series

Former World No.1 Ashleigh Barty took to social media to announce the release of her new series of children's book, entitled "Little Ash" on Wednesday.

Barty, who shocked the tennis world following her sudden retirement in March, has been working on the book series during her free time. Besides taking up the golf club on occasion, the 26-year old has been keeping fans updated on her progress with the book she'd been working on.

"Today's the day!" Barty wrote on Instagram. "The first four books in the Little Ash series are out now from @harperkidsau@harpercollinsaustralia I loved books growing up and watching the joy my niece now gets from reading inspired this series. It's been so fun adding elements of my childhood to these stories, in a way that I hope will make children smile.

"I want these books to help kids learn to be comfortable with themselves and get the confidence to try new things. Thank you to @jasmin_mcgaughey and @jadey.draws for helping me bring Little Ash to life. Follow the link in my bio to order."

Barty retired after winning the Australian Open earlier this year at the age of 25, and opted not to defend her Wimbledon title, a trophy she won last year. The Queensland native has announced her intentions to open a tennis academy in her hometown, with the aid of supporting indigenous Australian talent who want to pursue a career in tennis.