Reuters
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Retired Australian Open champion Ash Barty returns to Melbourne Park for this year’s event to mentor local prospect Olivia Gadecki, who has been given a wildcard for the first Grand Slam of the season.
Former world number one Barty ended her career last March, shortly after ending her country’s 44-year wait for a home champion at the Australian Open.
World No. 202 Gadecki said at the United Cup in Sydney that Barty would be in his camp at Melbourne Park for the January 16-29 tournament.
“I was very lucky to always be able to contact her if I had any questions or needed advice, she was always there for me,” Gadecki told the Australian Associated Press.
“The best part is that she treats me like a normal person and we can relate to that and off the pitch is just as important as on the pitch.”
The 20-year-old will begin her preparations for the Australian Open at Hobart International next week.
