Tennis: Rising tennis star swaps racquet for bat

HOWZAT? Ashleigh Barty is not doing it for the money. Photo / Getty Images

Former Australian Fed Cup captain David Taylor says Ashleigh Barty's switch to cricket highlights how isolating the tennis pro life can be.

Taylor, Samantha Stosur's long-time mentor and former coach of Martina Hingis and Alicia Molik, is tipping Barty to flourish in cricket's team environment after the 19-year-old joined the Brisbane Heat in the Women's Big Bash League.

"Ash was a special talent and, while it's obviously a big loss, ... she's found something she enjoys doing and that utilises her natural sporting attributes," Taylor said. "Ash was a naturally gifted tennis player with exceptional hand-eye co-ordination ... that would easily translate to success in cricket."

Feeling homesick, the former Wimbledon junior champion and three-times grand-slam doubles finalist took time out from tennis last September.

"I believe the change in her career path highlights how incredibly difficult playing tennis professionally can be for a young woman, due mostly to the travel demands," Taylor said.

"Tennis can be an incredibly lonely profession ... a team-sport environment would seem a fair bit more enjoyable, especially through the tough times."

Taylor introduced her to Fed Cup as a 16-year-old. He understands why Barty - who earned more than a million dollars during her brief tennis career - has given up the chance to make big money when the most she will earn in the Big Bash this season is A$10,000 ($10,700).

"Sure, there is much to be gained in terms of money and fame but also a lot is given up ... for some, it simply isn't worth it." AAP