Australian superstar Ash Barty paid a heartwarming tribute to tennis icon Evonne Goolagong Cawley following a second-round victory at the Australian Open.
Barty cruised past Lucia Bronzetti 6-1 6-1 on Rod Laver Arena to qualify for the third round of her home slam.
Following the easy win, she spoke to retired Australian tennis star Casey Dellacqua on court.
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Dellacqua asked about Barty’s relationship with Goolagong Cawley, who is unable to attend the Open this year.
Barty has spoken at length previously about how she idolises Goolagong Cawley – a fellow proud Aboriginal woman – and also paid tribute after her breakthrough win at Wimbledon last year.
“She’s an incredible human being,” Barty said today.
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“I’m extremely lucky to be able to call her a friend, I know she’s only ever a phone call away.
“The universe has worked in a way that we’re so connected. We’ve got some special anniversaries that we share together, obviously we’re connected through our heritage.
“She’s an incredible woman and she’s been able to guide so many of the indigenous youth coming up in the last however many years, but also her work off the court.
“I’m privileged to know her. I love her to death.”