Barty opts out of French Open title defense amid pandemic

Top-ranked Ash Barty will t defend her French Open title because of concerns over traveling during COVID-19 pandemic.

After skipping U.S. Open, which is being contested in New York without crowds, Barty has decided against traveling to Europe for events at Rome and Roland Garros.

“Last year’s French Open was most special tournament of my career so this is t a decision I have me lightly,” Barty, who won her first major title last year at French Open, said in a statement Tuesday. “I wish players and French Federation all best for a successful tournament.”

24-year-old Australian said main reasons for his decision where health risks associated with COVID-19 and her interrupted preparation. She hasn't been able to work with her coach recently because of domestic state border closures in Australia.

Barty said she would focus on a long pres-season and sourn hemisphere summer. Australia closed its international borders in March because of coronavirus pandemic and international travel is still heavily restricted. Organizers of Australian Open remain confident season-opening major will go ahe as scheduled in January.

“It has been a challenging year for everyone and although I am disappointed on a tennis front, health and well-being of my family and my team will always be my priority," Barty said. “Thank you to my fans for your continued support, I can’t wait to play for you again.”

Barty hasn't played a competitive match since February. Her last match in a major was a semifinal loss to Sofia Kenin at Australian Open in January.

Im credits: AP