Top-Ranked Player Kasatkina Announces Career Break Citing ‘Psychological Pressure’
The nation's leading WTA competitor has chosen to step away for the remainder of the 2025 season, stating she is at her “mental and emotional threshold.”
Causes of the Announcement
Daria Kasatkina, who earlier switched her citizenship to represent Australia, blamed the change for contributing to considerable “mental and emotional pressure.”
Additional factors consisted of the persistent struggle of being away from her loved ones and the grueling circuit routine.
“I've been far from fine for a long time and, to be frank, my on-court achievements show it,” she posted on her online accounts.
She continued, “The reality is, I've reached my limit and am unable to proceed. I need a break. A rest from the repetitive routine of professional tennis, the constant packing, the results, the expectations, the familiar opponents (sorry, girls), everything that comes with this career.”
Private Difficulties and Upcoming Goals
“There's only so much 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. But, I know I am strong and will improve by being away, resting, regrouping and renewing. Now is the moment I paid attention to my instincts for a change, my thoughts, my emotions and my body.”
She chose to switch allegiance after exiting Russia due to apprehensions about her well-being, having publicly spoken against the country's policies affecting the queer community and the conflict in Ukraine. Originally based in the UAE, she settled in her new home and secured long-term status in March.
She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who won a second-place finish for her birth country at the last Winter Olympics after earlier competing for her native Estonia.
She further mentioned she has not seen her parent, who remains in Russia, for four years.
Tennis Journey
A major tournament contender in recent years, she had finished the recent years in the elite group but is currently outside the top 15 after a mixed season where she won 19 and lost 21.
She is likely to exit the leading positions by the time the Australian Open arrives.
The 28-year-old confirmed she aims to resume in 2026, “recharged and motivated,” with the preparation for her local Grand Slam likely serving as a comeback goal.
Wider Context
The nation's next best competitor is Maya Joint, ranked 35th globally.
The Australian No. 1 is the latest elite athlete to cut short their year, following other prominent players, amid a recent trend of players retiring mid-match.
The tour governing body mandates elite athletes to participate in a required schedule, including the four grand slams, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and additional WTA events.
But top-ranked player the Polish star stated recently, “There's no way to squeeze it in the calendar. Maybe I will have to choose some tournaments and skip them, despite the fact that they are obligatory.
“It's essential to plan wisely about it - not really unfortunately care about the regulations and just consider what's beneficial for us.”
