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World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her tennis season early, characterizing the intense calendar as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

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

She struggled for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and concluding with a record of 19-21.

Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a significant factor 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 quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Add in the situation the emotional and mental stress related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can deal with and take as an single person."

"Should this label me as fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

"However, I know I am resilient and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Seasons Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly concluded their campaigns early in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not felt her usual self", while the Spanish player has discussed the mental toll of an ongoing spinal issue.

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players withdrew injured in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments recently, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Player Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for top players to compete in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The majority of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for a fortnight, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Players can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings or prize money if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.