Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Concludes Season Prematurely, Pointing to Mental Strain
World number 19 Daria Kasatkina has declared she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to conclude her tennis season early, characterizing the intense calendar as "too much, mentally and emotionally."
The 28-year-old switched her citizenship from Russia to Australia in March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.
Her performance suffered 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 change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her parent for four years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."
"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.
"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and take as an individual woman."
"Should this label me as fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she stated.
"Nonetheless, I believe I am strong and will grow stronger by being away and restoring my energy."
"It's time I heeded my own needs for once."
Fellow Athletes Also Ending Seasons Prematurely
Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not felt like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the mental toll of an persistent back problem.
Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tennis calendar.
Five players withdrew injured in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "excessively lengthy and demanding."
Tour Requirements and Player Issues
The WTA requires for top players to participate in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.
The majority of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for two weeks, as do all four major championships.
Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will receive no points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.
Ex-top ranked player Novak 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.