Professional Player Daria Kasatkina Ends Season Prematurely, Pointing to Emotional Fatigue
World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the demanding schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old athlete switched her nationality from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Her performance suffered for form throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.
Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not seeing her parent for four years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances show that."
"I have reached breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.
"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and there is only so much I can manage and take as an individual woman."
"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.
"However, I know I am resilient and will grow stronger by taking a break and recharging."
"It's time I listened to my own needs for once."
Other Players Also Ending Seasons Prematurely
Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly concluded their seasons early in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not felt 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 tennis calendar.
Five players retired due to injury in a pair of events in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."
WTA Requirements and Athlete Concerns
The WTA requires for elite athletes to participate in every major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits run for two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.
Players may miss required tournaments if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.
Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has urged players to be more united in advocating for reforms.
