Ash Barty's Australian Open role FINALLY revealed thanks to tennis prodigy Olivia Gadecki

He may not be able to defend his title but Ash Barty will return to Melbourne Park this month to coach another tennis super talent on his own big Australian Open dream.

Barty revealed in November that he would be returning to the scene of his momentous 2022 Open victory but refused to reveal what role he would play, only to refrain from joining the commentary ranks.

He may not be able to defend his title but Ash Barty (pictured) will return to Melbourne Park this month coaching another tennis super talent on his own big Australian Open dream

Queensland prodigy Olivia Gadecki (pictured) was delighted at the report that the retired superstar will be in her corner for the 20-year-old’s much-anticipated Open debut

But fellow Queensland prodigy Olivia Gadecki was delighted with the report that the retired superstar is in her corner for the 20-year-old’s much-anticipated Open debut after being handed a wildcard entry into the season’s first grand slam.

Barty has been coaching Gadecki for several years, with the pair often together on the Gold Coast, and is committed to helping his state mate make a successful transition into the professional ranks.

‘I’m really lucky to always have contact with him if I have any questions or if I need advice, he’s always there for me,’ Gadecki told AAP at the United Cup in Sydney.

Barty (pictured) has coached Gadecki for a number of years, the pair often spending time together on the Gold Coast, and is committed to helping his state mate make a successful transition into the professional ranks

‘The best part is she just treats me like a normal person and we can relate in that regard and off court is just as important as on court.’

As well as leaning on Barty’s vast experience in dealing with the pressure of expectation from a young age, the former national junior champion said the three-time major winner’s professionalism was unmatched.

It’s just his application. He’s just really good at being consistent in everything he does,’ Gadecki said.

Gadecki’s Open debut comes a year after he sat out the 2022 Australian summer campaign after refusing to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Gadecki’s Open debut comes a year after he sat out the 2022 Australian summer campaign after refusing to be vaccinated against COVID-19

That decision came after an unranked Gadecki burst onto the international stage with victory over 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin at the 2021 Phillip Island Trophy event at Melbourne Park.

Gadecki backed up the stunning upset win with a rapid rise through the ranks under respected coach David Taylor, a longtime ally of Samantha Stosur and mentor to greats including Martina Hingis and Naomi Osaka.

But he doesn’t regret his decision not to vaccinate, which also took a toll on Gadecki’s finances.

Barty is pictured in action at the 2022 Australian Open

‘Look, I know what’s involved in my decision and I’m just focused on doing the best I can with what I have and just trying to play for the rest of the year,’ said the world No.202, who a week into a new coaching partnership with Des Tyson.

‘Last year was quite difficult with injuries. I’ve been struggling a bit for the last five or six months.

‘I did my ankle and left hand but it’s a long journey and a year (of interruptions) won’t make a big difference. I look at the positives.

‘I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to play in the main-draw Australian Open, which has been a dream of mine since a young age.

Gadecki (pictured) said playing in the Australian Open was a dream from a young age

‘I know I can play at the highest level but I’m just looking at all the little things I need to do well to get there.

‘I’m just looking to enjoy the experience and hopefully get some matches under my belt.’

Gadecki will wrap up his Open preparations at next week’s Hobart International.