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Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina has declared she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to conclude her tennis season early, characterizing the demanding schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old athlete switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in March, after 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 win a tournament and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

The athlete attributed the emotional stress from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her challenges, which included not seeing her parent for four years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that."

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

"Add in the mix the psychological pressure associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can deal with and take as an single person."

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

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

"The moment has come I heeded my own needs for once."

Other Players Also Ending Seasons Early

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

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

Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

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

Tour Regulations and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for two weeks, as do all four Grand Slams.

Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

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