Kasatkina Ends 2025 Season Early Citing Emotional, Mental Strain Amid Busy Tennis Calendar

Daria Kasatkina, the world number 19 tennis player who switched nationality from Russia to Australia in 2025, has announced she is ending her season early due to severe mental and emotional strain. She cited the relentless schedule of the tennis tour, emotional stress from her nationality switch, and personal challenges, including not seeing her father for four years, as key factors contributing to her reaching a breaking point. Kasatkina emphasized the need to prioritize her well-being by taking time to rest and recharge, acknowledging the pressures many players face in professional tennis. Her decision aligns with a recent trend of top players like Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa also ending their seasons early due to mental health concerns and physical issues. The intense WTA calendar, which requires mandatory participation in numerous high-level tournaments, has been criticized for contributing to player burnout and injuries. Kasatkina's openness about her struggles highlights the growing conversation around mental health support and the demanding nature of the modern tennis schedule.