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Australia's leading female tennis athlete has opted to step away until the end of the tennis calendar, stating she is at her “emotional and mental limit.”

Reasons Behind the Announcement

Daria Kasatkina, who earlier switched her nationality from Russia to Australia, blamed the move for contributing to immense “psychological stress.”

Other reasons involved the persistent struggle of being distant from her loved ones and the relentless competition calendar.

“My well-being has suffered for a long time and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she posted on social media.

She continued, “Truth is, I've hit a wall and must stop now. I require time off. A break from the repetitive routine of life on the tour, the constant packing, the scores, the pressure, the same faces (my apologies, everyone), each element involved in this career.”

Personal Struggles and Upcoming Goals

“I can only handle I can manage and handle as a female athlete, all whilst competing with the best female athletes in the world.”

“If this makes me weak, then that's acceptable, I am fragile. But, I know I am strong and will get stronger by being away, refreshing, reorganizing and revitalizing. It's time I heeded my own needs for a change, my mind, my heart and my physical self.”

The athlete opted to alter allegiance after leaving her nation due to safety concerns, having previously criticized the country's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the invasion of Ukraine. Originally based in Dubai, she settled in her new home and secured long-term status in early this year.

She then announced her engagement to longtime girlfriend a former Olympic figure skater, who won a silver medal for Russia at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her birth nation Estonia.

Kasatkina also revealed she has been separated from her dad, who stayed behind in Russia, for several years.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in the past, she had ended the previous four seasons among the world's best but is currently outside the top 15 after a modest season where she won 19 and lost 21.

She is likely to exit the elite rankings by the time the next Grand Slam begins.

The tennis veteran announced she will return in the following season, “recharged and motivated,” with the build-up to her local Grand Slam likely serving as a return target.

Broader Implications

Australia's next best competitor is another Australian athlete, ranked 35th globally.

The Australian No. 1 is the latest top WTA competitor to withdraw from the tour, following Paula Badosa and Elina Svitolina, amid a recent trend of players retiring mid-match.

The WTA mandates top competitors to participate in a required schedule, including the major tournaments, premier tour stops, and additional WTA events.

But top-ranked player the Polish star commented last month, “It's not feasible to fit it all in the calendar. Maybe I will have to select some events and omit them, although they are mandatory.

“We have to be smart about it - possibly disregarding about the guidelines and just think what's good for us.”