The last Australian to take home an Australian Open singles title was Christine ONeil. That was 44 years ago.
Barty has been in great form, not dropping a single on her way to the finals. She will be going up against American Danielle Collins. She is in her first Grand Slam event since she took an indefinite leave from the sport last year in order to get surgery for her endometriosis.
Barty has said that she has embraced Australias hopes for a homegrown winner. “I think at this time of the year it always floats around with tennis that they’re looking for an Australian player in particular to have a really good run.”
Collins is the underdog in this match. She and Barty have a 3-1 head-to-head record with Barty in the lead. In 2019, she made it to the Australian Open semis. She is known for being feisty on-court and for her aggressive hitting.
When she was asked about Barty, she said, “Something I really admire about Ash’s game is her variety, playing a different game style than pretty much all of the players on tour.
“I think when I go out against her we’re going to have another battle hopefully and put on a good show for everyone.”