"Kasatkina opted to switch nationality after leaving Russia fearing for her safety having criticised their anti-LGBTQ+ laws and the war on Ukraine. Initially living in Dubai she moved to Melbourne and became a permanent Australian resident in March. She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, a former Olympic figure skater, who won a silver medal for Russia at the 2018 Winter Olympics having earlier competed for her native Estonia."
"Truth is, I've hit a wall and can't continue. I need a break. A break from the monotonous daily grind of life on the tour, the suitcases, the results, the pressure, the same faces (sorry, girls), everything that comes with this life. There's only so much I can deal with and take as an individual women, all whilst competing with the best female athletes in the world."
Daria Kasatkina has paused her tennis career for the rest of the year, stating she is mentally and emotionally at breaking point. She cited stress from switching nationality from Russia to Australia, prolonged separation from family, and the relentless tour schedule. Kasatkina became an Australian permanent resident in March after moving from Dubai to Melbourne and immediately became Australia’s No 1. She has been engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako and reported not having seen her father in four years. A 2022 French Open semi-finalist, Kasatkina has slipped to 19th after a modest season with 19 wins and 21 losses.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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