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Australia's highest-rated female tennis athlete has opted to take a break for the remainder of the 2025 season, admitting she is at her “psychological and emotional breaking point.”

Causes of the Choice

Daria Kasatkina, who recently changed her nationality from Russia to Australia, credited the transition for contributing to considerable “mental and emotional pressure.”

Additional factors included the persistent struggle of being away from her loved ones and the relentless competition calendar.

“My well-being has suffered for a long time and, truth be told, my match outcomes and showings demonstrate it,” she wrote on social media.

She added, “The reality is, I've hit a wall and can't continue. I must take a hiatus. A rest from the monotonous daily grind of life on the tour, the constant packing, the outcomes, the pressure, the regular competitors (my apologies, everyone), everything that comes with this career.”

Individual Challenges and Future Hopes

“I can only handle I can manage and cope with as a person, all whilst facing off against the leading players in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then that's acceptable, I am fragile. That said, I know I am strong and will improve by taking time off, refreshing, regrouping and revitalizing. The moment has come I paid attention to my instincts for a change, my mind, my emotions and my health.”

Kasatkina opted to alter nationality after departing her nation due to safety concerns, having publicly spoken against the government's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. Originally based in Dubai, she relocated to Australia and obtained permanent residency in the spring.

She later got engaged to companion an ex-Olympic athlete, who won a silver medal for her former team at the last Winter Olympics after initially participating for her birth nation Estonia.

She further mentioned she has not seen her dad, who remains in Russia, for several years.

Professional Background

A major tournament contender in 2022, she had finished the previous four seasons among the world's best but is currently 19th after a modest season where she had a near-even record.

She is likely to exit the top 20 by the time the home major takes place.

The professional athlete confirmed she will return in next year, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her home grand slam likely serving as a return target.

Wider Context

Australia's next best competitor is a rising star, ranked 35th globally.

She is the third elite athlete to cut short their year, following other prominent players, amid a growing pattern of competitors stopping mid-game.

The tour governing body requires elite athletes to compete in a minimum of 20 events, featuring the four grand slams, top-tier competitions, and six 500-level tournaments.

But top-ranked player Iga Swiatek stated last month, “It's not feasible to accommodate everything the schedule. Maybe I will have to pick some competitions and skip them, although they are mandatory.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - not really unfortunately care about the regulations and just focus on what's healthy for us.”