Tennis Star Kasatkina Ends Campaign Prematurely, Pointing to Mental Strain
Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional announced she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her competitive year ahead of schedule, describing the demanding schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old athlete changed her nationality from Russia to the Australian nation in the month of March, after voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.
She struggled for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.
The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her challenges, which included not seeing her parent for four years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for quite a while and, truth be told, my on-court showings reflect that."
"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.
"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and endure as an single person."
"If this makes me weak, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.
"Nonetheless, I know I am resilient and will grow stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."
"The moment has come I heeded myself for once."
Fellow Athletes Also Halting Their Years Prematurely
Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their campaigns ahead of time in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not felt her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing back problem.
Other players have also spoken about the effect of the tennis calendar.
Five players retired injured in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."
WTA Regulations and Athlete Concerns
The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.
The majority of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do each of the major championships.
Competitors can skip mandatory events if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they opt out.
Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to protect his body, has called on players to be more united in advocating for reforms.
