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The nation's top-ranked female tennis athlete has opted to pause her career until the end of the 2025 season, explaining she is at her “psychological and emotional threshold.”

Causes of the Decision

The Australian No. 1, who this year altered her allegiance to compete for Australia, blamed the transition for contributing to significant “emotional and mental pressure.”

Additional factors included the persistent struggle of being away from her relatives and the grueling circuit routine.

“I've been far from fine for a extended duration and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she posted on social media.

She continued, “The reality is, I've reached my limit and am unable to proceed. I require time off. A rest from the repetitive routine of life on the tour, the constant packing, the scores, the stress, the familiar opponents (my apologies, everyone), everything that comes with this life.”

Private Difficulties and Upcoming Goals

“I can only handle I can endure and take as an individual woman, all whilst competing with the leading players in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then that's acceptable, I'm weak. That said, I believe in my strength and will grow by stepping back, recharging, reorganizing and reenergising. It's time I listened to myself for a change, my mind, my heart and my physical self.”

Kasatkina chose to switch nationality after leaving her nation due to apprehensions about her well-being, having previously criticized the country's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. First living in Dubai, she moved to Melbourne and obtained permanent residency in March.

She later got engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who won a Olympic silver for Russia at the last Winter Olympics after first representing for her birth nation Estonia.

She further mentioned she has been separated from her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for several years.

Career Context

A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, she had finished the previous four seasons ranked in the top ten but is currently 19th after a modest season where she had a near-even record.

She is likely to exit the elite rankings by the time the next Grand Slam begins.

The 28-year-old stated she will return in the following season, “recharged and motivated,” with the preparation for her home grand slam expected to be a key objective.

Industry Impact

The nation's current No. 2 is another Australian athlete, placed 35th in the world.

The Australian No. 1 is the third top WTA competitor to withdraw from the tour, following other prominent players, amid a notable increase of competitors stopping mid-game.

The tour governing body requires top competitors to compete in a minimum of 20 events, encompassing the four grand slams, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and lower-tier matches.

But elite competitor Iga Swiatek commented recently, “There's no way to squeeze it in the itinerary. Maybe I will have to pick some competitions and omit them, despite the fact that they are obligatory.

“We have to be smart about it - not really unfortunately care about the regulations and just think what's beneficial for us.”