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World number 19 the tennis professional announced she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her tennis season ahead of schedule, labeling the grueling calendar as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her citizenship from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

Her performance suffered for form throughout the season, not managing to win a tournament and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.

Kasatkina attributed the emotional stress from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, which involve not visiting with her father for four years.

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

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

"Add in the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can deal with and take as an single person."

"If this makes me fragile, then so be it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I know I am resilient and will grow stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

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

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Seasons Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also concluded their campaigns early in recent weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an persistent back problem.

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

Five players retired injured in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments last week, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

Tour Regulations and Player Concerns

The WTA requires for top players to compete in each Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last two weeks, as do each of the major championships.

Players can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or financial rewards if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to preserve his health, has urged players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.