Tennis Australia delivered its traditional awards and, once again, the great figure was Ash Barty.
The oceanic figure became the first player (male or female) to win the coveted Newcombe Medal, the highest individual honor in Australian tennis, five times.
The 27-year-old retired earlier this year, but was recognized for her outstanding start to the year. After taking singles and doubles titles in Adelaide, Barty continued her impressive form at the Australian Open: she won the singles title without dropping a set to become the first local champion in 44 years.
There was also recognition for Evonne Goolagong Cawley. The legend was honored nearly four decades after her retirement because the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion and former World No.1 continues to inspire. Her passion for the sport and her ability to make a difference are evident in her ongoing work with Aboriginal youth.
There were also awards for juniors Talia Gibson, Taylah Preston and Edward Winter, among others.
