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The nation's top-ranked women's tennis player has decided to take a break until the end of the tennis calendar, explaining she is at her “emotional and mental limit.”

Causes of the Decision

Daria Kasatkina, who recently changed her nationality from Russia to Australia, blamed the change for contributing to significant “emotional and mental strain.”

Other reasons consisted of the continued challenge of being distant from her family and the demanding circuit routine.

“I've been far from fine for a considerable period and, truth be told, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she shared on digital platforms.

She stated, “Honestly, I've hit a wall and must stop now. I require time off. A break from the monotonous daily grind of the tennis circuit, the travel, the results, the pressure, the same faces (apologies, ladies), all aspects of this existence.”

Individual Challenges and Return Plans

“I can only handle I can manage and cope with as a person, all whilst battling the leading players in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then so be it, it's true. However, I am confident in my resilience and will improve by being away, recharging, reorganizing and renewing. It's time I paid attention to my instincts for a difference, my thoughts, my emotions and my health.”

The athlete chose to switch allegiance after exiting her home country due to apprehensions about her well-being, having previously criticized the nation's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the war on Ukraine. After initially residing in Dubai, she relocated to her new home and secured long-term status in March.

She then announced her engagement to partner Natalia Zabiiako, who secured a silver medal for Russia at the PyeongChang Games after first representing for her home country of Estonia.

The tennis star further mentioned she has not seen her parent, who still lives in her homeland, for four years.

Professional Background

A major tournament contender in the past, the player had concluded the recent years ranked in the top ten but is now ranked 19th after a modest season where she had a near-even record.

She is likely to drop out of the elite rankings by the time the Australian Open takes place.

The 28-year-old stated she aims to resume in 2026, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her domestic major probably acting as a comeback goal.

Broader Implications

Australia's next best competitor is another Australian athlete, holding the 35th position.

Kasatkina is the latest elite athlete to cut short their year, following two other stars, amid a recent trend of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The WTA requires leading players to compete in a minimum of 20 events, encompassing the Grand Slam events, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and lower-tier matches.

But top-ranked player the Polish star stated recently, “It's just impossible to squeeze it in the calendar. Maybe I will have to select some tournaments and skip them, even though they are required.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - not really unfortunately care about the guidelines and just think what's healthy for us.”