🔗 Share this article

Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the grueling schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.

Kasatkina attributed the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her father for several years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I have been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, my results and performances reflect that."

"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.

"Add in the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and there is only so much I can manage and endure as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as fragile, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

"It's time I listened to my own needs for a change."

Fellow Athletes Also Halting Seasons Early

Former top-five players Svitolina and Badosa have also ended their seasons early in the past few weeks.

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

Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

A quintet of competitors withdrew injured in a pair of events in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to compete in every Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The majority of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Players can skip mandatory events if they are injured or have personal reasons, but they will receive no rankings points or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.