🔗 Share this article

Australia's highest-rated WTA competitor has chosen to pause her career throughout the rest of the 2025 season, stating she is at her “psychological and emotional limit.”

Reasons Behind the Decision

The tennis professional, who earlier switched her allegiance to compete for Australia, credited the transition for contributing to significant “mental and emotional strain.”

Other reasons included the persistent struggle of being distant from her relatives and the relentless circuit routine.

“I haven't been okay for a extended duration and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings demonstrate it,” she wrote on digital platforms.

She stated, “Honestly, I've reached my limit and can't continue. I require time off. A break from the repetitive routine of life on the tour, the suitcases, the results, the pressure, the familiar opponents (sorry, girls), everything that comes with this life.”

Individual Challenges and Upcoming Goals

“There's only so much I can deal with and handle as a female athlete, all whilst competing with the leading players in the world.”

“If this makes me weak, then so be it, it's true. That said, I am confident in my resilience and will grow by taking time off, recharging, reorganizing and renewing. It's time I heeded my own needs for a change, my brain, my emotions and my physical self.”

Kasatkina chose to switch nationality after exiting her home country due to safety concerns, having openly opposed the nation's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the conflict in Ukraine. Originally based in the Middle East, she relocated to Melbourne and obtained permanent residency in March.

She then announced her engagement to companion Natalia Zabiiako, who won a Olympic silver for her former team at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her home country of Estonia.

She further mentioned she has been separated from her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for an extended period.

Tennis Journey

A French Open semi-finalist in the past, she had concluded the last four calendar years among the world's best but is presently 19th after a challenging season where she secured 19 victories against 21 defeats.

She is likely to exit the elite rankings by the time the home major begins.

The 28-year-old announced she plans to come back in 2026, “recharged and motivated,” with the build-up to her home grand slam likely serving as a return target.

Industry Impact

The nation's second-ranked player is Maya Joint, ranked 35th globally.

She is the latest leading female player to withdraw from the tour, following other prominent players, amid a growing pattern of competitors stopping mid-game.

The WTA mandates top competitors to appear at a set number of tournaments, including the Grand Slam events, premier tour stops, and six 500-level tournaments.

But world No. 2 Iga Swiatek stated recently, “There's no way to squeeze it in the itinerary. Maybe I will have to select some events and omit them, although they are obligatory.

“We must think carefully about it - possibly disregarding about the guidelines and just think what's good for us.”