SYDNEY Feb 19 AAP – Wimbledon junior champion Ashleigh Barty won her first title a professional on Sunday, defeating No.2 seed Olivia Rogowska in straight sets in the final of the pro tour circuit event at Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre.
The 15-year-old Queenslander was impressive in her 6-1 6-3 victory, after only entering the tournament as a qualifier.
She confirmed her status as one of the brightest prospects in Australian tennis, dropping only one set on her way to the title.
The experienced Rogowska had no answer to her opponent’s constant pressure as Barty charged to a 5-0 lead in the first set.
But she clawed her way back into the match to lead 3-2 in the second set before Barty turned up the heat with her powerful strokes once more and closed out the match.
“It was a very physical game with some long points but I will cherish the win,” said Barty.
“I am now in the main draw for an event in Mildura this week rather than entering as a qualifier, so I am pleased with where my game is heading.”
Coach Jason Stoltenberg said his advice to Ashleigh was to hang tough.
“She did it in style against Olivia and she raised the bar to another level with some of the shots she played today.
“Her work ethic is excellent for one so young and she is very professional and self motivated.
“It will be an interesting path she takes from this point on in terms of her development.”