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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, describing the grueling schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, after voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered with consistency this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a record of 19-21.

Kasatkina linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her challenges, which involve not seeing her father for several years.

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I have been not okay for a long time and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that."

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

"Add in the mix 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."

"If this makes me fragile, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

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

"It's time I heeded myself for once."

Other Players Similarly Ending Seasons Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly concluded their seasons early in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star mentioned 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 tennis calendar.

Five players withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek saying the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Requirements and Player Issues

The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to participate in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Players can skip required tournaments 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 reduced his tournament appearances in recent years to preserve his health, has urged players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.