Professional Player Daria Kasatkina Ends Campaign Prematurely, Citing Mental Fatigue
Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her tennis season ahead of schedule, labeling the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."
The 28-year-old changed her nationality from the Russian Federation to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in the Ukrainian region.
She struggled for form this year, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.
Kasatkina attributed the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not seeing her father for four years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, truth be told, my on-court showings show that."
"I have reached breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.
"Add in the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and there is only so much I can deal with and endure as an single person."
"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.
"However, I know I am resilient and will get stronger by taking a break and recharging."
"It's time I heeded my own needs for a change."
Other Players Also Ending Seasons Prematurely
Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also concluded their campaigns early in recent weeks.
The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not been feeling like myself", while Badosa has spoken about the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.
Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tour schedule.
A quintet of competitors withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in China last week, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."
WTA Requirements and Athlete Issues
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to participate in each major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.
Players may miss mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will receive no rankings points or financial rewards if they opt out.
Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to protect his body, has called on players to be more united in advocating for reforms.
