Ash Barty continues her campaign to become the first Australian to win the Open since 1978 – as she plays to an empty stadium under strict Covid rules
Australian tennis superstar Ash Barty is on track to a second grand slam final with a flying start to her Australian Open quarter final.
The womens world number one skipped to a 5-0 lead against Czech Karolína Muchová before taking the first set 6-1.
Barty hopes to become the first Australian to win the Open since John Newcombe in 1978.
She is looking to book a semi final showdown against either US young gun Jessica Pegula or Jennifer Brady who will face off later on Wednesday.
Crowds will return to Melbourne Park on Thursday after the Victoria government lifted its snap five day coronavirus lockdown which ends 11.59pm Wednesday.
World number three Naomi Osaka will take on US superstar Serena Williams in the first semi-final on Thursday to book the first spot in Saturday night’s final.
More to come.
Ash Barty (pictured)
