Australian sporting icons Ash Barty and Shane Warne were among those recognised in Queen Elizabeth’s platinum jubilee Honours list.
The pair were listed among an elite group of 33 as an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO) for their service to their respective sports.
The Queen’s Birthday 2022 list appointed 200 Australians as a Member of the Order (AM) and 428 with a Medal of the Order (OAM).
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Recently retired tennis star Ash Barty was recognised for her service to tennis at the elite level and to youth development programs.
Barty announced sensationally announced her retirement from tennis in March after winning the 2022 Australian Open in January, and Wimbledon in 2021.
The three-time Grand Slam champion retired at the age of just 25, however, her contributions to the sport and shining a spotlight on women’s tennis cannot be understated.
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In a statement, Barty said: “There are so many Australian people who do wonderful things for our country and I want to congratulate all of the other award recipients on being recognised for their contributions.
"On a personal level, I always try to uphold Australian values - being humble, respectful, kind and caring for others."
Shane Warne, who tragically passed away in March aged 52, was given the posthumous honour for more than just his sporting contributions.
He was awarded for his ‘distinguished service to cricket as a player, role model and commentator, to the community through charitable initiatives, and for philanthropic contributions’.
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According to ABC, Warne was nominated for the award prior to his death, and while his efforts on the cricket pitch were greatly recognised it was his charitable work that was spotlighted.
His work in Sri Lanka following the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, support in Christchurch Earthquake relief in 2011, and work as founder of the Shane Warne Foundation were all noted among others.
His father, Keith accepted the award on Shane’s behalf.
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In a statement, he said: “Over the last few difficult months, we have reflected a great deal on Shane personally and his amazing achievements throughout his life.
"This award acknowledges those achievements and recognises that Shane was much more than an incredible cricketer.
"He really was a selfless and remarkable man who always looked to support those less fortunate.
"We are so proud of him and know he would be extremely honoured to receive such an accolade.
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"We hope his legacy will inspire many generations to come."
Other Australian sporting figures honoured in the list include Australia women’s cricket captain Meg Lanning, iconic men’s cricket legend Doug Walters, and golfer Adam Scott who were all appointed as Members of the order of Australia.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy.Topics: Australia, Cricket, Tennis