The nation's top-ranked WTA competitor has opted to pause her career throughout the rest of the tennis calendar, stating she is at her “psychological and emotional breaking point.”
The tennis professional, who earlier switched her citizenship to represent Australia, credited the move for contributing to considerable “emotional and mental stress.”
Other reasons consisted of the persistent struggle of being away from her family and the demanding tour schedule.
“I haven't been okay for a extended duration and, truth be told, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she wrote on her online accounts.
She continued, “Honestly, I've hit a wall and am unable to proceed. I need a break. A rest from the tedious cycle of life on the tour, the constant packing, the scores, the pressure, the regular competitors (apologies, ladies), everything that comes with this career.”
“Each person has a limit I can endure and take as an individual woman, all whilst facing off against the leading players in the world.”
“If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am fragile. That said, I believe in my strength and will get stronger by stepping back, resting, reorganizing and renewing. Now is the moment I heeded my own needs for a difference, my mind, my heart and my health.”
Kasatkina chose to switch nationality after departing her nation due to apprehensions about her well-being, having publicly spoken against the country's anti-LGBTQ+ laws and the invasion of Ukraine. First living in the Middle East, she settled in her new home and obtained permanent residency in the spring.
She later got engaged to partner a former Olympic figure skater, who secured a silver medal for Russia at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her native Estonia.
The tennis star also revealed she has been separated from her father, who remains in Russia, for an extended period.
A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, she had concluded the previous four seasons in the elite group but is currently outside the top 15 after a modest season where she won 19 and lost 21.
She is likely to exit the elite rankings by the time the Australian Open arrives.
The tennis veteran confirmed she will return in next year, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her domestic major expected to be a comeback goal.
The nation's next best competitor is Maya Joint, placed 35th in the world.
Kasatkina is the latest leading female player to cut short their year, following other prominent players, amid a notable increase of players retiring mid-match.
The WTA obligates elite athletes to participate in a set number of tournaments, featuring the Grand Slam events, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and six 500-level tournaments.
But world No. 2 the Polish star stated last month, “It's just impossible to fit it all in the calendar. It's possible I will have to select some competitions and miss them, even though they are required.
“We have to be smart about it - not really unfortunately care about the rules and just think what's good for us.”
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