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World number 19 the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and chose to end her competitive year early, labeling the demanding calendar as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered with consistency throughout the season, failing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

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

She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I have reached my limit and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she added.

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

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am resilient and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

"It's time I heeded my own needs for a change."

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Their Years Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in recent weeks.

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

Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

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

Tour Regulations and Player Issues

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

The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits run for a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Players may miss mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will receive no points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has urged players to be more united in forcing change.