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World number 19 the tennis professional announced she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to end her competitive year ahead of schedule, characterizing the demanding schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, following voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her father for four years.

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

"I am at my limit and sadly I am not alone," she added.

"Combine the situation the psychological pressure related to my citizenship change and there is only so much I can manage and take as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as weak, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am strong and will grow stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for once."

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Seasons Early

Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their campaigns early in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the mental toll of an ongoing back problem.

Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors retired injured in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Requirements and Athlete Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to compete in every Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The majority of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for a fortnight, as do all four Grand Slams.

Players can skip mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they opt out.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.