Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

Reigning Australian Open champion and retired No.1 Ashleigh Barty was on hand at 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

Melbourne Park to deliver the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Trophy to Rod Laver Arena 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

ahead of the Australian Open women's final. The 26-year-old Queenslander, 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

who announced her sudden retirement last April, received a rousing ovation from

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

the crowd as she strolled on court with the trophy she captured in inspired 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

fashion 12 months ago. Last year, Barty captured her third and final major title by 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

defeating Danielle Collins 6-3, 7-6 in the final to become Australia's first homegrown 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

champion in 44 years. With seven of the members of the Original 9 and her friend

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

a wide grin and trademark wave to the crowd before making way for the night's 

Former No.1 Ashleigh Barty reunites with the Australian Open trophy

combatants, No.5 Aryna Sabalenka and Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.