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The nation's top-ranked female tennis athlete has opted to take a break throughout the rest of the current year, admitting she is at her “psychological and emotional limit.”

Reasons Behind the Choice

The Australian No. 1, who recently changed her nationality from Russia to Australia, blamed the change for contributing to immense “mental and emotional pressure.”

Further contributors consisted of the ongoing difficulty of being separated from her relatives and the relentless tour schedule.

“I haven't been okay for a considerable period and, truth be told, my results and performances reflect that,” she shared on her online accounts.

She stated, “Honestly, I've encountered a barrier and am unable to proceed. I need a break. A pause from the tedious cycle of professional tennis, the constant packing, the outcomes, the expectations, the same faces (my apologies, everyone), everything that comes with this career.”

Individual Challenges and Return Plans

“Each person has a limit I can endure and handle as a female athlete, all whilst battling the best female athletes in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then I accept it, I am fragile. That said, I know I am strong and will grow by taking time off, resting, recalibrating and renewing. Now is the moment I paid attention to my instincts for a change, my mind, my heart and my body.”

The athlete decided to change citizenship after departing her home country due to apprehensions about her well-being, having openly opposed the government's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. First living in Dubai, she moved to her new home and secured long-term status in early this year.

She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who won a second-place finish for Russia at the 2018 Winter Olympics after first representing for her native Estonia.

Kasatkina also revealed she has not seen her father, who still lives in her homeland, for several years.

Tennis Journey

A French Open semi-finalist in 2022, Kasatkina had finished the last four calendar years in the elite group but is presently 19th after a modest season where she won 19 and lost 21.

She is projected to exit the elite rankings by the time the Australian Open arrives.

The professional athlete announced she plans to come back in the following season, “refreshed and prepared,” with the lead-in to her home grand slam probably acting as a key objective.

Wider Context

Australia's current No. 2 is Maya Joint, holding the 35th position.

Kasatkina is the latest top WTA competitor to end their season early, following two other stars, amid a notable increase of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The tour governing body mandates top competitors to appear at a set number of tournaments, encompassing the four grand slams, premier tour stops, and lower-tier matches.

But world No. 2 Iga Swiatek commented recently, “There's no way to squeeze it in the schedule. Perhaps I will have to pick some competitions and skip them, although they are required.

“We have to be smart about it - perhaps ignoring about the guidelines and just focus on what's beneficial for us.”