TENNIS STAR ASH BARTY JOINS TEAM WORLD FOR ICONS CUP SOUTH AFRICA

In an announcement celebrating National Women’s Day in South Africa, Team World Captain José María Olazábal has confirmed the addition of three-time singles Grand Slam Champion and former World No. 1 Ash Barty to his squad. Barty will officially represent Team World as they travel to The Links at Fancourt in George (11–13 December 2026) to take on Ernie Els’s Team South Africa.

Taking on the men in high-stakes match-play golf, Barty - who plays off a 2 handicap, making her one of the standout players in the field - brings proven Icons Series experience to the lineup. During her 2022 performance at Icons Cup New York, Barty delivered a strong winning record on the course, demonstrating how seamlessly her elite athletic skills translate to the fairways.

Recognised as one of the most naturally gifted multi-sport athletes of her generation, Barty won the French Open, Wimbledon, and the Australian Open before retiring from professional tennis at the top of the world rankings. Playing off a 2 handicap, Barty brings competitive composure, a sharp short game, and big-match experience to Olazábal’s team.

Barty joins confirmed Team World players John Terry and Brian Lara as Team World builds its 14-player lineup for December.

MORE NAMES ANNOUNCED SOON

The Icons Cup South Africa brings together 28 world-class athletes out of their traditional arenas to compete over three days of team match-play golf. Broadcast live globally to over 150 countries, the event highlights cross-sport rivalries, inside-the-ropes access, and unscripted drama.

With Ernie Els’s Team South Africa featuring AB de Villiers, Fourie du Preez, Butch James, and Vernon Philander, fans can expect further roster announcements from both captains in the coming weeks.

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Staged at South Africa’s top-ranked course, The Links at Fancourt, the Icons Cup South Africa offers fans an up-close live spectator experience.

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