Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Finishes Campaign Early, Citing Mental Fatigue
Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her tennis season early, describing the demanding calendar as "excessive, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old athlete switched her citizenship from Russia to Australia in the month of March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Her performance suffered for form this year, failing to secure a title and finishing with a record of 19-21.
The athlete attributed the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her parent for four years.
She wrote in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for quite a while and, truth be told, my on-court showings show that."
"I am at my limit and sadly I am not alone," she continued.
"Combine the mix the psychological pressure 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 remarked.
"However, I know I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."
"The moment has come I heeded myself for a change."
Other Players Also Ending Seasons Early
Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also ended their seasons ahead of time in the past few weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not felt like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the mental toll of an ongoing spinal issue.
Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.
A quintet of competitors withdrew injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."
WTA Regulations and Player Concerns
The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.
Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings 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 urged fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.
