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The nation's highest-rated WTA competitor has opted to step away for the remainder of the current year, admitting she is at her “mental and emotional limit.”

Factors Leading to the Decision

Daria Kasatkina, who recently changed her nationality from Russia to Australia, blamed the move for contributing to significant “psychological strain.”

Further contributors consisted of the ongoing difficulty of being distant from her relatives and the demanding tour schedule.

“I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that,” she shared on digital platforms.

She stated, “The reality is, I've reached my limit and must stop now. I need a break. A rest from the repetitive routine of the tennis circuit, the suitcases, the results, the stress, the regular competitors (apologies, ladies), all aspects of this existence.”

Private Difficulties and Upcoming Goals

“I can only handle I can endure and take as an individual woman, all whilst competing with the top competitors in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then that's acceptable, I am fragile. That said, I am confident in my resilience and will improve by being away, recharging, recalibrating and revitalizing. The moment has come I paid attention to my instincts for a change, my brain, my feelings and my physical self.”

She opted to alter nationality after exiting her home country due to apprehensions about her well-being, having publicly spoken against the nation's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the war on Ukraine. Originally based in Dubai, she settled in her new home and obtained permanent residency in the spring.

She subsequently became engaged to companion an ex-Olympic athlete, who secured a second-place finish for her birth country at the 2018 Winter Olympics after first representing for her native Estonia.

She further mentioned she has been unable to visit her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for four years.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, Kasatkina had concluded the previous four seasons ranked in the top ten but is now ranked 19th after a modest season where she had a near-even record.

She is projected to drop out of the leading positions by the time the home major takes place.

The 28-year-old stated she aims to resume in the following season, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her local Grand Slam likely serving as a comeback goal.

Industry Impact

Australia's next best competitor is a rising star, ranked 35th globally.

Kasatkina is the latest top WTA competitor to cut short their year, following Paula Badosa and Elina Svitolina, amid a notable increase of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The WTA obligates elite athletes to participate in a required schedule, encompassing the four grand slams, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and six 500-level tournaments.

But world No. 2 Iga Swiatek stated recently, “There's no way to accommodate everything the itinerary. Perhaps I will have to pick some competitions and omit them, even though they are mandatory.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - perhaps ignoring about the rules and just focus on what's good for us.”