'Nice touch': Ash Barty's 'classy' act for vanquished opponent
Aussie World No.1 Ash Barty has been lauded after showing a touch of class following her victory over defending French Open champ Iga Swiatek.
Barty defeated the Polish teenager 7-5, 6-4 on Monday in a much-anticipated showdown between the past two Roland Garros champions.
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Barty opted out of her title defence last year in Paris amid health concerns during the coronavirus pandemic, but has wasted little time proving she'll be the player to beat at the season's second grand slam starting May 30.
However, after the thriller fans were quick to point out Barty's classy gesture after the match.
Barty shared some words with Swiatek at the net following the tough-fought match.
And @Jimmie48 Photography also capture a brilliant photo at the Madrid Open moment of Barty and Swiatek.
Barty could be seen standing and applauding Swiatek as she made her way from the court, which sparked widespread praise for the Australian.
Ash Barty is a good egg, example 27132: Applauding Iga as she walks off the court after the match. pic.twitter.com/bO3rj53xbS
β Jimmie48 Photography (@JJlovesTennis) May 3, 2021
@ashbarty respect ππ΅π±
β Dawid Pajor (@dawidoo95) May 3, 2021
I agree with you. She always respect others players and the game. She knows to win and to lose.
I reckon she is an exemple for the kidsβ ipascual (@ignasipascual1) May 3, 2021
I have noticed Simona does this too. Nice touch. Costs nothing and projects a positive image of the sport.
Rugby players do this too. Classy.β Glen Hill (@Cinetti) May 3, 2021
it makes me so happy to see that. dunno why, it just does. good rivalry, exquisite competition, perfect respect πthat's tennis for me.
β gen_legault (@gen_fabrique) May 3, 2021
Barty praises Swiatek after match
Barty was asked after the match what she said to the young 2020 French Open champion at the net.
The World No.1 said she wanted to share some words of encouragement for the Polish superstar.
"I said 'Mate, that was fun. It will be the first of many,'" she told reporters.
That was fun β¨
The first of many I am sure, @iga_swiatek ππ½ pic.twitter.com/36GHaJJX63β Ash Barty (@ashbarty) May 3, 2021
"Really enjoyed myself out there tonight. I enjoyed the challenge. Iga's game is exceptional. It's really, really impressive. I love testing myself & trying to figure out the puzzle and challenges she created for me."
Swiatek had spoken prior to their match about how Barty is setting a great example for tennis fans watching on how to deal with the pressure.
"Basically, I think it's a good example of dealing with expectations, just having some kind of distance to the game," she said.
"I'm also having a hard time finding it.
Iga Swiatek on Ash Bartyβs journey in and out of tennis and her subsequent rise to No.1.#MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/exogDx3RTX
β WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) May 3, 2021
"I don't know the details,. I know it from the perspective of someone who was just reading media.
"Yeah, it shows that when you're going to catch some perspective, just approach tennis differently, it's going to be easier. She's doing that."
Barty will be up against
