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Australia's leading women's tennis player has opted to take a break throughout the rest of the tennis calendar, explaining she is at her “psychological and emotional threshold.”

Reasons Behind the Choice

Daria Kasatkina, who earlier switched her nationality from Russia to Australia, attributed the transition for contributing to significant “mental and emotional pressure.”

Other reasons included the continued challenge of being distant from her relatives and the relentless competition calendar.

“I've been far from fine for a considerable period and, to be frank, my match outcomes and showings demonstrate it,” she posted on social media.

She stated, “The reality is, I've encountered a barrier and must stop now. I need a break. A break from the repetitive routine of life on the tour, the suitcases, the results, the pressure, the familiar opponents (sorry, girls), each element involved in this career.”

Personal Struggles and Future Hopes

“There's only so much I can manage and take as an individual woman, all whilst competing with the leading players in the world.”

“If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I'm weak. That said, I know I am strong and will get stronger by stepping back, resting, recalibrating and revitalizing. The moment has come I listened to myself for a change, my thoughts, my heart and my health.”

The athlete chose to switch allegiance after leaving her nation due to fears for her security, having publicly spoken against the country's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. Originally based in Dubai, she relocated to her new home and obtained permanent residency in March.

She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who won a second-place finish for her former team at the PyeongChang Games after first representing for her home country of Estonia.

The tennis star also revealed she has been separated from her dad, who stayed behind in Russia, for an extended period.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in the past, she had ended the last four calendar years among the world's best but is presently ranked 19th after a mixed season where she won 19 and lost 21.

She is projected to fall from the leading positions by the time the next Grand Slam arrives.

The tennis veteran announced she aims to resume in next year, “energised and ready to rock,” with the lead-in to her local Grand Slam probably acting as a return target.

Wider Context

Australia's current No. 2 is a rising star, placed 35th in the world.

The Australian No. 1 is the most recent top WTA competitor to cut short their year, following two other stars, amid a growing pattern of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The tour governing body requires elite athletes to appear at a required schedule, encompassing the Grand Slam events, premier tour stops, and additional WTA events.

But top-ranked player the Polish star stated last month, “It's just impossible to squeeze it in the calendar. Perhaps I will have to select some tournaments and omit them, although they are obligatory.

“We must think carefully about it - possibly disregarding about the guidelines and just focus on what's healthy for us.”