Professional Player Kasatkina Concludes Season Early, Pointing to Emotional Exhaustion
World number 19 the tennis professional has declared she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, characterizing the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."
The 28-year-old athlete switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.
She struggled for form throughout the season, not managing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.
Kasatkina attributed the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not visiting with her father for several years.
She expressed in a detailed post: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that."
"I am at breaking point and sadly I am not alone," she added.
"Combine the situation the psychological pressure associated with my nationality switch and there is only so much I can manage and take as an single person."
"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.
"However, I know I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."
"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for a change."
Fellow Athletes Also Halting Seasons Prematurely
Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in recent weeks.
Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.
Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tour schedule.
Five players withdrew injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek saying the season is "too long and intense."
WTA Requirements and Athlete Concerns
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in each Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.
The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.
Players may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they opt out.
Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in lately to preserve his health, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in forcing change.
