Ashleigh Barty's stay in the Chinese city of Wuhan ended with a loss in the semifinals. But that takes nothing away from a season that includes her first Grand Slam title at the French Open and subsequent move to world number one. CGTN Sports Scene, in its latest episode of "Beyond The Baseline," caught up with the Australian and discussed her rise in the sport and hopes for the future.

Speaking exclusively to CGTN Sports Scene, the French Open champion said, "It was really bizarre (winning at Roland Garros). It was obviously a dream come true for me to win. I never thought that it could happen or would happen. It was an amazing tournament for me and I think the last match was incredible."

Thanks to her emphatic French Open triumph, she moved up to her career best ranking of world number two. "It's an incredible race. There are so many players who are really close and had some fantastic results. It's important for me not to focus on it too much. Coming back here trying the best I can do every day and if I win tennis matches I will be able to hold my top spot," Barty mentioned.

The Australian ace will seek to win the year's first major on her home soil in January next year. "It's important for me to try and finish up the season well and then take time in the off season well before refreshing a bit. I am not worried much about the upcoming Australian summer and looking forward to play at home again."

A multi-faceted Barty took a short sabbatical to play another popular sport in her home country, cricket. "I just needed some time to rest and an opportunity to play cricket came up. I thought I could opt for it."

"They are very different sports technically and skills don't match. It was a fantastic time in my life and I met some incredible new friends. I am still in contact with a lot of them. It was a part of my journey but I am happy to do that," she further added.

Barty will also spearhead the Australian challenge for the upcoming Fed Cup final against France and she sounded upbeat about the tournament. "It would be incredible. I think for us it's a perfect opportunity to play the Fed Cup final in Australia. We are very excited to get to Perth and playing against the French is always a tough ask. But glad that it will be on our home soil and hopefully we can win."