Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Concludes Campaign Prematurely, Pointing to Mental Exhaustion
Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, labeling the intense schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.
She struggled with consistency this year, failing to secure a title and finishing with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.
Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not visiting with her parent for several years.
She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my results and performances show that."
"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.
"Add in the mix the psychological pressure related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and take as an individual woman."
"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.
"However, I know I am strong and will grow stronger by taking a break and recharging."
"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for a change."
Other Players Also Halting Their Years Prematurely
Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also concluded their campaigns early in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not felt her usual self", while Badosa has discussed the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.
Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.
Five players retired injured in two tournaments in China recently, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."
WTA Requirements and Athlete Issues
The WTA requires for top players to compete in each Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for two weeks, as do all four Grand Slams.
Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they opt out.
Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.
