Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Ends Season Early, Pointing to Mental Exhaustion

World number 19 the tennis professional announced she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her tennis season early, labeling the intense schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her nationality from the Russian Federation to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled with consistency this year, failing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

Kasatkina attributed the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a significant factor 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 on-court showings show that."

"I am at breaking point and sadly 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 manage and endure as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as weak, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will grow stronger by taking a break and recharging."

"The moment has come I heeded myself for once."

Other Players Similarly Ending Their Years Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also ended their campaigns ahead of time in the past few weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not been feeling her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tour schedule.

Five players retired injured in two tournaments in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Regulations and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in each 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 can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has called on players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.