A love of fishing and 80s rock music may be unexpected answers from a teenager but few were surprised by the inroads Ash Barty made in Brisbane before an untimely injury cut her four-match winning streak short and denied her the chance to play in the second round against Maria Sharapova.
What was the highlight from your off season?
I had four days break in my off-season. I went fishing, so that was my highlight. All the way from training, it was nice to get up to North Queensland and catch a few nice cold trout and sweetlips, so that was good.
What’s on your iTunes?
Ooh this one – there’s some messy things on there! (laughs). I kind of like a bit of a mix of everything. One of my favourite bands is The Script. The Script and Maroon 5, I listen to those two bands a lot but I’ve got a bit of everything on there.
Is there anything specific that you listen to before a match?
No, when I was younger I used to though. I remember with Dad, there was a tournament in Rocky (Rockhampton), we used to listen to “Evie” parts one, two and three. It goes for like 11 minutes. It’s just a classic old 80s rock song and it was great.
The last movie that you watched?
Actually, this morning, before my match (against Daniela Hantuchova in Brisbane’s first round) I watched What to expect when you’re expecting. Funny movie, I loved it.
Do you have any superstitions?
No, not at all. I’m pretty relaxed about everything really.
If you could borrow a shot from another player, what would it be and why?
(Roger) Federer’s second serve. I think it’s really underrated.
If you could have a superpower what would it be?
Well, my favourite superhero is Spiderman, so I think some web of some sort. I don’t know.
If you could trade places with a player for any one day, who would that be and why?
If they don’t have to be playing, let’s just say Pat Rafter. Because he’s up on the Sunny Coast, living the life up in Noosa. It’s beautiful up there.
Apart from Australia, your favourite places to travel?
I love the States and I love the UK.
Goals for 2014 season?
I just want to continue to play tennis and hopefully win a few matches. Already it’s been a great start to the season for me. Hopefully I can continue this, the way I’m playing, and hopefully get a few wins as well.