ASH & DYLAN'S SECRET PROJECT REVEALED

THE AUSSIE TENNIS GREATS ARE TEAMING UP

When three-time Grand Slam champion and world number one Ash Barty announced she was retiring from tennis at the age of just 25, no-one - least of all her teammates and rivals - Saw her shock departure coming.

Described as abrupt, astounding and completely unexpected, it wasn't long before the rumour mill went into overdrive. It was suggested the $32-million kid from Ipswich was "absolutely spent" and no longer wanted to live out of a suitcase, after the gruelling life of being on the road had taken its toll.

As Ash faced her hotly anticipated press conference last week, one thing became very clear: what lays ahead now is nothing short of exciting.