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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the intense schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in the month of March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

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

Kasatkina attributed the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her difficulties, which included not visiting with her parent for several years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.

"Add in the mix the psychological pressure associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and endure as an single person."

"Should this label me as fragile, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am resilient and will get stronger by taking a break and recharging."

"The moment has come I heeded myself for once."

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Their Years Early

Former top-five players Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also concluded their campaigns ahead of time in the past few weeks.

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

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the effect of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors retired injured in two tournaments in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the season is "too long and intense."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to participate in each Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Players may miss mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has called on players to be more united in advocating for reforms.