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The nation's leading women's tennis player has decided to pause her career until the end of the tennis calendar, stating she is at her “psychological and emotional limit.”

Factors Leading to the Announcement

The Australian No. 1, who earlier switched her allegiance to compete for Australia, credited the transition for contributing to immense “emotional and mental strain.”

Further contributors consisted of the persistent struggle of being distant from her relatives and the grueling competition calendar.

“I haven't been okay for a extended duration and, to be frank, my match outcomes and showings demonstrate it,” she wrote on her online accounts.

She added, “The reality is, I've hit a wall and am unable to proceed. I need a break. A break from the repetitive routine of professional tennis, the travel, the results, the stress, the regular competitors (apologies, ladies), all aspects of this career.”

Private Difficulties and Future Hopes

“There's only so much I can manage and take as an individual woman, all whilst facing off against the top competitors in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then that's acceptable, I'm weak. That said, I know I am strong and will get stronger by being away, resting, recalibrating and revitalizing. Now is the moment I paid attention to my instincts for a change, my thoughts, my heart and my health.”

She decided to change allegiance after leaving Russia due to safety concerns, having previously criticized the country's policies affecting the queer community and the conflict in Ukraine. First living in Dubai, she settled in her new home and obtained permanent residency in March.

She then announced her engagement to partner a former Olympic figure skater, who secured a silver medal for her former team at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her birth nation Estonia.

Kasatkina also revealed she has been separated from her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for four years.

Career Context

A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, Kasatkina had concluded the previous four seasons ranked in the top ten but is currently outside the top 15 after a challenging season where she won 19 and lost 21.

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

The professional athlete stated she will return in 2026, “recharged and motivated,” with the preparation for her local Grand Slam likely serving as a return target.

Industry Impact

The nation's second-ranked player is another Australian athlete, holding the 35th position.

Kasatkina is the third leading female player to cut short their year, following two other stars, amid a notable increase of competitors stopping mid-game.

The tour governing body requires elite athletes to participate in a set number of tournaments, including the Grand Slam events, premier tour stops, and six 500-level tournaments.

But world No. 2 the Polish star commented last month, “It's just impossible to squeeze it in the itinerary. Perhaps I will have to pick some competitions and omit them, although they are obligatory.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - perhaps ignoring about the rules and just think what's healthy for us.”