🔗 Share this article

Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to end her tennis season early, describing the intense schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old athlete switched her citizenship from the Russian Federation to Australia in March, following voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

She struggled for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19-21.

Kasatkina attributed the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not seeing her father for several years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, truth be told, my results and performances reflect that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Add in the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and endure as an single person."

"If this makes me fragile, then so be it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am resilient and will grow stronger by being away and restoring my energy."

"The moment has come I listened to myself for once."

Other Players Similarly Halting Seasons Early

Former top-five players Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Other players have voiced concerns about the effect of the tennis calendar.

Five players retired injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments recently, with multiple major winner Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to participate in each major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for a fortnight, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Players can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has urged players to be more united in forcing change.