Australian Open 2020: Barty excited but ignoring the hype

As excitement builds in Melbourne, Ash Barty is trying to ignore expectations after reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open.

Published : Jan 28, 2020 15:07 IST

Australian Ashleigh Barty secured a routine win over Petra Kvitova in the quarters.

Australian Ashleigh Barty secured a routine win over Petra Kvitova in the quarters.

Ash Barty is excited about her run at the Australian Open, but the world number one is trying to ignore the expectations of a nation.

Barty became the first Australian woman to reach the semifinals of the tournament since 1984 by overcoming Petra Kvitova 7-6 (8-6) 6-2 on Tuesday.

However, while the 23-year-old French Open champion is happy with her run, Barty is ignoring the hype in Melbourne.

"I'm excited. My team's excited. We love the opportunity of getting another match out on that beautiful court," Barty told a news conference.

She added: "I don't pay attention to it [the nation being on her side] honestly. I'm here to try and do the best that I can.

"Obviously it's exciting. Hopefully I can bring a smile to a few faces around our country and around the world.

"For me, it's trying to do the best that I can, find that enjoyment for myself and my team."

Barty will face Sofia Kenin in the semifinals after the American 14th seed beat Ons Jabeur.

As excitement builds in Melbourne, Ash Barty is trying to ignore expectations after reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open.