Daria Kasatkina Reveals Temporary Pause Citing ‘Emotional Strain’
The nation's leading women's tennis player has chosen to take a break for the remainder of the 2025 season, stating 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 immense “psychological pressure.”
Other reasons included the persistent struggle of being away from her loved ones and the demanding tour schedule.
“I've been far from fine for a considerable period and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings show it,” she shared on social media.
She stated, “The reality is, I've encountered a barrier and must stop now. I require time off. A break from the tedious cycle of the tennis circuit, the travel, the results, the stress, the regular competitors (apologies, ladies), all aspects of this life.”
Personal Struggles and Return Plans
“Each person has a limit I can manage and handle as a female athlete, all whilst competing with the leading players in the world.”
“If people consider this a flaw, then I accept it, I am fragile. That said, I know I am strong and will get stronger by stepping back, resting, recalibrating and renewing. Now is the moment I paid attention to my instincts for a shift, my thoughts, my feelings and my physical self.”
Kasatkina decided to change citizenship after departing her home country due to safety concerns, having previously criticized the nation's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the war on Ukraine. Originally based in the UAE, she relocated to her new home and obtained permanent residency in the spring.
She later got engaged to companion an ex-Olympic athlete, who won a silver medal for Russia at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her native Estonia.
Kasatkina also revealed she has not seen her dad, who remains in Russia, for several years.
Professional Background
A major tournament contender in the past, Kasatkina had finished the last four calendar years ranked in the top ten but is presently 19th after a challenging season where she had a near-even record.
She is expected to drop out of the leading positions by the time the home major begins.
The professional athlete stated she aims to resume in 2026, “energised and ready to rock,” with the build-up to her local Grand Slam expected to be a comeback goal.
Wider Context
The nation's current No. 2 is a rising star, placed 35th in the world.
Kasatkina is the latest top WTA competitor to withdraw from the tour, following other prominent players, amid a notable increase of players retiring mid-match.
The Women's Tennis Association mandates leading players to compete in a set number of tournaments, including the Grand Slam events, 10 WTA 1,000 events, and additional WTA events.
But world No. 2 the Polish star stated in the past, “There's no way to fit it all in the calendar. It's possible I will have to select some competitions and skip them, despite the fact that they are required.
“We have to be smart about it - not really unfortunately care about the regulations and just think what's beneficial for us.”
