Ash Barty, the former world number one in women's tennis, is preparing to play in the NZ Open pro-am this week, aiming to rekindle her golfing skills and add to her impressive athletic repertoire. Partnering with DP World Tour player Anthony Quayle, Barty will take on other notable athletes in a relaxed yet competitive environment that showcases her transition from tennis to golf. Her participation in this high-profile event, featuring athletes like cricket legend Ricky Ponting and surfing icon Kelly Slater, highlights the increasingly popular crossover between elite sports.

The NZ Open, now with a prize pool of $1.69 million, has garnered attention for its pro-am format that emphasizes camaraderie and involvement from various sports. Barty's participation not only underscores her love for golf, which she plays off a handicap of four but also cements her status as a multifaceted sports figure. The involvement of big names from different athletic backgrounds also adds to the allure of the tournament, drawing comparisons to famous pro-am events held at locations like Pebble Beach.

As she approaches this week’s competition, Barty has expressed a laid-back mindset, aiming to enjoy the experience without the pressures she faced during her tennis career. Her return to sports serves as an inspiring example of how athletes can successfully transition into new fields, and it will be interesting to see how she performs alongside other sports legends at the Millbrook Resort.