New Delhi, March 23 : Members of the tennis comm ty on Wednesday paid tributes to the outgoing Australian superstar Ashleigh Barty. The 25-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner shocked the sporting world as she announced her retirement from the game to “chase other dreams”. “What a legend @ashbarty .. tennis will miss you .. unbelievable role model on and off the court .. good luck mate for this next phase #inspiration,” tweeted Sania Mirza. Simona Halep said, “Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What’s next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo.” “Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis what a player,” wrote Andy Murray. Barty’s compatriot Dylan Alcott, who was named the 2022 Australian of the Year, also retired this season, following a career where he became the first man to complete the Golden Slam in quad singles, tweeted, “Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate.” Karolina Pliskova said, “Congrats on an incredible career Ash It was a privilege to share a court with you. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter, @ashbarty. You will be missed.” Petra Kvitova wrote, “Ash, I have no words… actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best!” Barty won three Grand Slam singles titles on three different surfaces – 2019 Roland Garros, 2021 Wimbledon and most recently the Australian Open in 2022 – and spent 121 total weeks atop the WTA Rankings. Her most recent triumph at the Australian Open will likely be remembered as her most impactful victory as she became the first Australian to win the title at her home Grand Slam event in 44 years, and in convincing fashion without dropping a set. Barty has become the second reigning World No.1 ranked woman to retire while gracing the top of the WTA Rankings. Justine Henin retired on May 14, 2008, after spending 61 consecutive weeks at No.1. Across all-levels of play, Barty posted a 305-102 record in singles and a 200-64 record in doubles.