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The nation's top-ranked WTA competitor has opted to step away for the remainder of the tennis calendar, admitting she is at her “emotional and mental threshold.”

Reasons Behind the Decision

The Australian No. 1, who earlier switched her citizenship to represent Australia, attributed the move for contributing to immense “psychological strain.”

Additional factors included the continued challenge of being away from her relatives and the demanding tour schedule.

“My well-being has suffered for a long time and, truth be told, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she posted on digital platforms.

She added, “Honestly, I've reached my limit and am unable to proceed. I require time off. A pause from the tedious cycle of the tennis circuit, the suitcases, the results, the expectations, the same faces (sorry, girls), all aspects of this career.”

Private Difficulties and Upcoming Goals

“There's only so much I can endure and take as an individual woman, all whilst facing off against the top competitors in the world.”

“If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am fragile. That said, I know I am strong and will improve by being away, refreshing, recalibrating and renewing. It's time I paid attention to my instincts for a shift, my thoughts, my feelings and my physical self.”

She chose to switch citizenship after exiting her home country due to fears for her security, having openly opposed the government's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. After initially residing in Dubai, she settled in her new home and became a permanent resident in the spring.

She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who previously earned a silver medal for her former team at the last Winter Olympics after first representing for her home country of Estonia.

The tennis star also revealed she has not seen her dad, who stayed behind in Russia, for several years.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in recent years, Kasatkina had ended the previous four seasons among the world's best but is currently outside the top 15 after a mixed season where she secured 19 victories against 21 defeats.

She is likely to fall from the elite rankings by the time the home major takes place.

The professional athlete announced she will return in next year, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her domestic major probably acting as a comeback goal.

Broader Implications

Australia's current No. 2 is a rising star, ranked 35th globally.

She is the third leading female player to cut short their year, following two other stars, amid a notable increase of players retiring mid-match.

The WTA obligates elite athletes to compete in a set number of tournaments, encompassing the major tournaments, premier tour stops, and six 500-level tournaments.

But top-ranked player a leading athlete remarked recently, “It's just impossible to accommodate everything the itinerary. It's possible I will have to choose some events and miss them, even though they are obligatory.

“We have to be smart about it - not really unfortunately care about the rules and just focus on what's beneficial for us.”