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The nation's leading WTA competitor has decided to take a break throughout the rest of the 2025 season, explaining she is at her “emotional and mental breaking point.”

Reasons Behind the Decision

Daria Kasatkina, who recently changed her citizenship to represent Australia, blamed the move for contributing to considerable “mental and emotional stress.”

Further contributors included the continued challenge of being separated from her relatives and the grueling circuit routine.

“I haven't been okay for a extended duration and, truth be told, my on-court achievements reflect that,” she shared on digital platforms.

She continued, “Honestly, I've reached my limit and must stop now. I need a break. A rest from the monotonous daily grind of the tennis circuit, the constant packing, the scores, the expectations, the regular competitors (apologies, ladies), all aspects of this life.”

Individual Challenges and Return Plans

“There's only so much I can deal with and cope with as a person, all whilst battling the leading players in the world.”

“Should this be seen as weakness, then so be it, I am fragile. However, I believe in my strength and will improve by stepping back, refreshing, recalibrating and renewing. It's time I listened to myself for a shift, my thoughts, my heart and my health.”

She decided to change citizenship after exiting Russia due to fears for her security, having previously criticized the nation's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the war on Ukraine. First living in the UAE, she settled in her new home and secured long-term status in March.

She subsequently became engaged to companion Natalia Zabiiako, who won a Olympic silver for Russia at the 2018 Winter Olympics after first representing for her birth nation Estonia.

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

Career Context

A major tournament contender in the past, the player had concluded the recent years in the elite group but is now 19th after a modest season where she secured 19 victories against 21 defeats.

She is expected to fall from the elite rankings by the time the next Grand Slam begins.

The 28-year-old stated she aims to resume in next year, “refreshed and prepared,” with the build-up to her home grand slam probably acting as a return target.

Broader Implications

Australia's second-ranked player is Maya Joint, holding the 35th position.

Kasatkina is the latest top WTA competitor to withdraw from the tour, following two other stars, amid a growing pattern of competitors stopping mid-game.

The Women's Tennis Association requires leading players to participate in a required schedule, including the four grand slams, premier tour stops, and six 500-level tournaments.

But top-ranked player a leading athlete remarked last month, “It's not feasible to accommodate everything the calendar. It's possible I will have to select some competitions and skip them, although they are mandatory.

“We must think carefully about it - perhaps ignoring about the regulations and just think what's beneficial for us.”