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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her tennis season early, characterizing the grueling schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled for form this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, which included not visiting with her parent for several years.

She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, my results and performances reflect that."

"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she continued.

"Combine the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can manage and take as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as weak, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

"It's time I heeded myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Seasons Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also ended their seasons early in the past few weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing back problem.

Other players have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players retired injured in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek saying the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to participate in every major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for two weeks, as do all four major championships.

Players can skip mandatory events if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has urged players to be better aligned in forcing change.