Google News
WTA No. 1 Ashleigh Barty is through to Wimbledon’s fourth round after beating Briton Harriet Dart 6-1 6-1 on Saturday, on the All England Club’s Center Court. The French Open champion talked about her opponent, who is just one year younger than her at 22, in a very positive light.
"I was able to overpower her just a touch,” the Australian said, according to ABC Australia. “But it certainly wasn't a one-and-one scoreline. Harriet is going to have a fantastic career. I know she will play out on Centre Court again soon." Barty, who had never made it this far in the ladies’ singles competition at The Championships, told the press after earning her pass forward in just 53 minutes, "I said to Harriet 'this will become your favourite court in the world'
It's certainly mine." “It’s a really special moment walking out onto the court. One of the best tennis courts in the world. Privileged to be able to play on it,” she added. “I promised myself when I walked out there that I'd smile and try and take it all in”.
"It's a first for me,” Barty reminded, acknowledging that playing alone on Center Court now isn’t the same experience as reaching the doubles final in 2013. “I've had a taste of it in doubles, but really excited to be here in singles for the first time." The WTA's best-ranked player next faces Alison Risk to remain in the race to the trophy.