As an athlete I used to be the most meticulous, organised person and now it’s absolute carnage’
Ash Barty admits she’s terrified of adding another child to the chaos, but the pregnant tennis champion is loving her new life.
For years, Ash Barty thrived in a world of routine, discipline, and meticulous preparation. As a top-ranked tennis player, her days were planned to the minute — from training blocks to meals, recovery sessions to match-day rituals. Everything had its place, and every detail mattered. But now, as a new mother, the former world No.1 admits her world has been turned upside down.
“Honestly, as an athlete I used to be the most meticulous, organised person — and now it’s absolute carnage,” Barty recently confessed, laughing in an interview. Her words reflect a sentiment shared by many new parents, particularly those who were used to controlling their environment with precision. Parenthood, she says, has taught her to let go of expectations and embrace the mess.
The shift from elite sport to motherhood has brought about a transformation not just in routine, but in mindset. Where once her day began with alarms and structured workouts, it now begins when her baby decides it does — often in the middle of the night. Bottles, baby bags, unpredictable naps, and chaotic mealtimes have replaced the order she once lived by. And while it’s a stark contrast, Barty has found a deep sense of joy and purpose in this new kind of “carnage.”
She acknowledges the challenges — the sleepless nights, the emotional rollercoasters, the constant learning curve — but also the incredible fulfilment that motherhood brings. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” she admits, “but also the most beautiful.”
Barty’s experience highlights the often-unspoken reality of transitioning from a structured life to one ruled by a tiny, unpredictable human. It also speaks to the broader journey many athletes face when they step away from competition — a search for new rhythms, identities, and definitions of success.
Importantly, Barty doesn’t shy away from showing the unpolished side of motherhood. Her honesty resonates with many women, reminding them that it’s okay for life to feel chaotic — and that perfection isn’t the goal.
As she continues to navigate motherhood, Barty is finding a new balance — one that blends her natural discipline with patience, flexibility, and humour. And in that balance, she’s discovering a new kind of strength.