Professional Player Kasatkina Ends Season Early, Citing Mental Exhaustion
World number 19 the tennis professional announced she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to end her competitive year ahead of schedule, labeling the intense schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."
The 28-year-old switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.
She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19-21.
Kasatkina attributed the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her challenges, which included not seeing her father for several years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."
"I have reached my limit and sadly I am not alone," she continued.
"Add in the mix the psychological pressure related to my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and endure as an individual woman."
"If this makes me fragile, then so be it, I'm weak," she remarked.
"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will grow stronger by being away and restoring my energy."
"The moment has come I heeded my own needs for once."
Fellow Athletes Similarly Ending Seasons Prematurely
Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their campaigns ahead of time in recent weeks.
The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt like myself", while Badosa has discussed the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.
Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.
A quintet of competitors withdrew injured in two tournaments in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the season is "too long and intense."
Tour Regulations and Player Concerns
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to compete in each Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for a fortnight, as do all four Grand Slams.
Competitors may miss mandatory events if they are injured or have personal reasons, but they will not get any rankings points or financial rewards if they opt out.
Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.
