Aussie tennis sweetheart Ash Barty is used to having a dream team in her corner, so when the three-time Grand Slam queen gives birth in the coming weeks, it makes sense that she’ll have her very own healthcare hero at her side.
Woman’s Day hears Ash, who celebrates her 27th birthday this week, and her husband Garry Kissick have made the decision that the arrival of their first bub will be a family affair with Ash’s big sister Sara Coppolecchia set to take on the all-important midwife duties.
The bub is almost here!
(Image: Instagram)SECRET ARRIVAL
“Everything Garry and Ash do as a couple has always been under the radar, and welcoming their first baby will be no different, including the fact that her sister Sara will be with her every step of the way,” a source shares.
“They managed to keep Ash’s shock retirement and their July nuptials a secret, so you can expect this little baby is going to be heavily guarded – there won’t be any big glitzy announcements, because that’s just how Ash likes to roll.”
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Fittingly, Ash and Garry have opted to have their baby delivered at their local St Andrew’s Ipswich Private Hospital, where Sara is a trusted member of the birthing team.
Ash shared this adorable snap to announce her pregnancy.
(Image: Instagram)In 2020, the former world No. 1 was one of hundreds of athletes to film a video for the Real Heroes Project, which celebrated health care workers during the pandemic.
In a loving tribute, Ash gave a shout-out to her big sister, saying, “Thank you so much for everything that you do, not just for new mums and new bubs, but all of your nursing and midwifery.” She added, “She’s helping young mothers and their families through these uncertain times and that’s why she’s my inspiration.”
As Ash’s due date nears, it now remains to be seen just who else will be present for the birth.
FAMILY AFFAIR
“Ash’s other sister Ali won’t be too far away, and her mum and dad Josie and Robert and the nieces and nephews will no doubt be in the waiting room ready for first cuddles!,” dishes our insider, adding that the Bartys are a close-knit family and are always together to mark special milestones. “Everyone will be wanting the first look at the little bub.”
Meanwhile, Ash – and the entire nation – is said to be counting down the days. “2023 set to be the best year yet,” she shared on Instagram in January. “We are so excited for our new adventure.”
