Barty To Replace Dellacqua In Hopman Cup

Written by: Bob Larson Tennis on 18th December 2012

Barty To Replace Dellacqua In Hopman Cup

epa03374151 Casey Dellacqua of Australia hits a return to Na Li of China during their match on the third day of the 2012 US Open Tennis Championship at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, USA, 29 August 2012. The US Open runs through Sunday 09 September 2012. EPA/JOHN G. MABANGLO |

Former junior Wimbledon winner Ash Barty has been given a major career break after being chosen to substitute for injured Casey Dellacqua on the Australian team for this month’s start of the Hopman Cup. Barty, 16, and ranked 175, will make her surprise debut in the eight-nation team competition at Perth, western Australia, playing alongside 20-year-old compatriot Bernard Tomic.

Dellacqua, a Perth local, was forced out by a foot injury which she picked up last October in Japan but which has not completely healed.

“It’s a Peroneal Brevis tear and although it’s getting better every day it’s not going to be ready in time for Perth and I can’t rush my return to competition. I really hope I can try and play in Hobart if I’m ready and if I get a wildcard,” she said,

“I always love playing at Hopman Cup, the people of Perth always get behind me and it’s a great feeling to have so much support. I was also really looking forward to being part of history and playing at the new Perth Arena. Hopefully I have the chance to come back next year.”

Barty, who won the Wimbledon juniors in 2011, will step into the breach for the host nation, making the Aussies by far the youngest squad in the mix.

“We are delighted Ash has confirmed for Hyundai Hopman Cup,” said officials, “She’s one of the most promising girls in her age group and is already making a successful transition from juniors to the pro Tour, this year winning four singles and four doubles titles.

“Ash and Bernard are definitely two of the most talented players in their generation. Ash is one of the youngest ranked players in the WTA at 175, an amazing achievement at just 16, and Bernard is the youngest player in the top 100.

Barty said the competition which begins December 29 “will be an incredible experience to compete against some of the world’s best players and will be an amazing start to the summer for me.

“I’ve learned so much this year and I think my game has matured a lot. I’ve played more professional events this year and Hopman Cup is going to be a real opportunity to play against the top players. I can’t wait.”