Professional Player Daria Kasatkina Concludes Campaign Prematurely, Citing Mental Fatigue

Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and chose to end her tennis season ahead of schedule, characterizing the intense schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete switched her citizenship from the Russian Federation to Australia in March, following public criticism regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19-21.

The athlete linked the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her challenges, which included not seeing her father for four years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, 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 situation the psychological pressure associated with my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and take as an single person."

"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will get stronger by being away and restoring my energy."

"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for a change."

Other Players Similarly Halting Their Years Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also concluded their seasons ahead of time in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not been feeling like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the mental toll of an ongoing back problem.

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the impact 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 saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for elite athletes to compete in every major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

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 required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in lately to preserve his health, has called on players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.