Professional Player Kasatkina Concludes Season Prematurely, Citing Emotional Strain
World number 19 Daria Kasatkina announced she is at her "limit" and chose to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, describing the intense calendar as "too much, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old athlete changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Her performance suffered with consistency this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.
The athlete attributed the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, which included not seeing her parent for four years.
She wrote in a detailed post: "I have been not okay for quite a while and, truth be told, my on-court showings reflect that."
"I have reached my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.
"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can manage and endure as an single person."
"Should this label me as fragile, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she stated.
"However, I know I am strong and will grow stronger by being away and restoring my energy."
"It's time I heeded myself for once."
Other Players Similarly Ending Their Years Early
Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Badosa have also concluded their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.
The Ukrainian star stated she had "not been feeling like myself", while Badosa has discussed the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.
Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tennis calendar.
Five players withdrew injured in a pair of events in China recently, with multiple major winner Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."
WTA Requirements and Athlete Concerns
The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 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.
Players may miss mandatory events if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they do not play.
Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in recent years to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be better aligned in forcing change.
