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World number 19 Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her competitive year early, characterizing the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in the Ukrainian region.

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

Kasatkina attributed the emotional stress from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her challenges, which involve not seeing her father for several years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I am at my limit and sadly I am not alone," she continued.

"Add in the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can manage and endure as an single person."

"Should this label me as weak, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

"However, I know I am strong and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I listened to myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Also Halting Seasons Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also concluded their campaigns ahead of time in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not been feeling like myself", while Badosa has spoken about the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players retired due to injury in two tournaments in China last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Athlete Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for top players to participate in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Players may miss mandatory events if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in recent years to protect his body, has called on fellow professionals to be better aligned in forcing change.