Tennis Star Kasatkina Concludes Season Early, Pointing to Emotional Strain
Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina has declared she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the demanding schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."
The 28-year-old switched her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and concluding with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.
The athlete attributed the emotional stress from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her challenges, which involve not seeing her parent for four years.
She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."
"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.
"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and endure as an single person."
"If this makes me weak, then so be it, I'm weak," she stated.
"However, I believe I am resilient and will grow stronger by being away and restoring my energy."
"It's time I listened to myself for a change."
Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Their Years Prematurely
Former top-five players Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not felt like myself", while Badosa has discussed the mental toll of an persistent back problem.
Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.
Five players retired injured in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments last week, with multiple major winner Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."
Tour Regulations and Athlete Issues
The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every Grand Slam, ten premier events and six 500-level tournaments.
The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.
Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or financial rewards if they opt out.
Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in recent years to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.