Tennis Star Kasatkina Ends Campaign Early, Citing Mental Exhaustion

World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and chose to conclude her tennis season early, characterizing the grueling schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from Russia to the Australian nation in the month of March, after public criticism regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete linked the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her challenges, which included not seeing her parent for four years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and take as an individual woman."

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

"It's time I heeded myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Ending Their Years Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also ended their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.

The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not felt her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players withdrew injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."

Tour Regulations and Player Issues

The WTA requires for elite athletes to compete in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for two weeks, as do all four major championships.

Players may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have personal reasons, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in recent years to preserve his health, has urged fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.