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The nation's leading WTA competitor has decided to take a break throughout the rest of the 2025 season, stating she is at her “emotional and mental limit.”

Factors Leading to the Announcement

The Australian No. 1, who earlier switched her allegiance to compete for Australia, attributed the transition for contributing to considerable “psychological strain.”

Other reasons consisted of the ongoing difficulty of being separated from her loved ones and the relentless circuit routine.

“I've been far from fine for a considerable period and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings demonstrate it,” she wrote on her online accounts.

She continued, “Honestly, I've reached my limit and must stop now. I need a break. A pause from the repetitive routine of the tennis circuit, the suitcases, the scores, the stress, the familiar opponents (sorry, girls), all aspects of this existence.”

Private Difficulties and Return Plans

“Each person has a limit I can endure and handle as a female athlete, all whilst facing off against the leading players in the world.”

“Should this be seen as weakness, then so be it, I'm weak. That said, I know I am strong and will get stronger by stepping back, resting, reorganizing and reenergising. It's time I paid attention to my instincts for a difference, my thoughts, my heart and my health.”

She opted to alter citizenship after leaving Russia due to safety concerns, having previously criticized the government's policies affecting the queer community and the war on Ukraine. First living in the UAE, she moved to her new home and secured long-term status in early this year.

She then announced her engagement to partner a former Olympic figure skater, who previously earned a silver medal for Russia at the last Winter Olympics after first representing for her native Estonia.

Kasatkina additionally shared she has not seen her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for an extended period.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, she had ended the last four calendar years among the world's best but is currently outside the top 15 after a mixed season where she secured 19 victories against 21 defeats.

She is likely to fall from the top 20 by the time the home major arrives.

The professional athlete confirmed she will return in next year, “refreshed and prepared,” with the preparation for her local Grand Slam likely serving as a key objective.

Wider Context

The nation's current No. 2 is Maya Joint, holding the 35th position.

Kasatkina is the third elite athlete to withdraw from the tour, following two other stars, amid a recent trend of competitors stopping mid-game.

The WTA obligates leading players to compete in a minimum of 20 events, featuring the Grand Slam events, top-tier competitions, and additional WTA events.

But top-ranked player the Polish star commented last month, “It's not feasible to fit it all in the itinerary. It's possible I will have to pick some tournaments and miss them, even though they are mandatory.

“We have to be smart about it - possibly disregarding about the guidelines and just focus on what's healthy for us.”