🔗 Share this article

Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional stated she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to conclude her tennis season early, characterizing the demanding calendar as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from Russia to the Australian nation in March, after voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled for form throughout the season, not managing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19-21.

Kasatkina attributed the mental strain from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her challenges, which involve not seeing her father for several years.

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.

"Add in the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can deal with and endure as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as weak, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I know I am resilient and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I heeded myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Their Years Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Other players have also spoken about the impact of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Regulations and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to compete in each major tournament, ten premier events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do all four Grand Slams.

Players can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in lately to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in forcing change.