Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Concludes Season Prematurely, Citing Emotional Fatigue

World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her competitive year early, labeling the demanding schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old switched her nationality from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, after public criticism regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered with consistency this year, failing to secure a title and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

The athlete linked the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her parent for several years.

She expressed in a detailed post: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she continued.

"Add in the mix the psychological pressure associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and endure as an single person."

"Should this label me as weak, then so be 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 listened to myself for a change."

Other Players Also Halting Seasons Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their seasons early in the past few weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an persistent back problem.

Other players have voiced concerns about the effect of the tennis calendar.

Five players withdrew injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

Tour Requirements and Player Issues

The WTA requires for top players to participate in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits run for a fortnight, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.