World number 1 Ash Barty has spoken publicly for the first time since announcing her retirement.

The 25-year-old shocked the tennis world yesterday when she announced her retirement on social media.

“I will never stop hitting tennis balls,” she told media today, “I just won’t be doing it selfishly for me trying to progress my career.”

“I’ve given absolutely everything that I have for this sport … it would not be fair to not be 100 per cent committed.

“It’s been one hell of a journey and I certainly have no regrets.”

4BC reporter Jarryd Braybrook told Sofie Formica it was revealed Barty’s coach saw her drive waning during the Tokyo Olympics.

“At that point, it was pretty much done for her,” Jarryd said.

“It kind of makes her Australian Open in all the more incredible – when the drive and the energy’s not there, to be able to get up and play, probably arguably one of the most dominant Australian Opens, … to go out a reigning Wimbledon champion, a reigning Australian Open champion quite extraordinary.”

Press PLAY below to hear Jarryd Braybrook’s wrap of the conference