World No.2 Angelique Kerber believes Ashleigh Barty has the tools to challenge for a grand slam title in 2019, describing the Australian as a tricky opponent to play.
Barty rose to 15th in the world following a strong 2018 campaign that featured two WTA title wins.
The 22-year-old also reached the round of 16 at the US Open - her best ever result at a major - as well as the third round at both the Australian Open and Wimbledon.
Barty enjoyed a solid Hopman Cup campaign, beating Alize Cornet and Garbine Muguruza in straight sets, before losing to Kerber 6-4 6-4 in a tough contest on Friday night.
Kerber, who has won three grand slam titles, believes Barty will be among the contenders in the majors this year.
"I think so," Kerber said.
"Ash is a tricky opponent. She's a really talented player.
"You never know what ball she will play.
"It's just (about) experience. She learned from last year. I think that she's ready for sure to go to the next step."
Barty has set her sights on cracking into the world's top 10 this year, as well as going deep in the majors.
The rising star will play at the Sydney International before flying to Melbourne for the Australian Open.
Barty was satisfied with her form at the Hopman Cup, but still wants to fine tune a few things.
"This week has been great," Barty said.
"It's the first week of the season. There are some kinks we would like to iron out, and that just comes from match practice.
"We'll switch focus to Sydney, and then worry about Melbourne when it comes around.
"It's just getting used to matches again, and tightening the screws a little bit."
Matt Ebden had a mixed Hopman Cup campaign.
After starting with a three-set win over Frenchman Lucas Pouille, Ebden slumped to straight-set losses to veteran David Ferrer and world No.4 Alexander Zverev.
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