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Ranked 19th globally Daria Kasatkina has declared she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from Russia to the Australian nation in March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, not managing to secure a title and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

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

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my results and performances show that."

"I have reached my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she continued.

"Combine the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can manage and endure as an individual woman."

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

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

"It's time I heeded myself for a change."

Other Players Also Ending Their Years Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly ended their campaigns early in the past few weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina mentioned she had "not felt her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Additional athletes have also spoken about the effect of the tour schedule.

A quintet of competitors withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the season is "too long and intense."

Tour Requirements and Player Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for top players to participate in every major tournament, ten premier events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last a fortnight, as do each of the major championships.

Players can skip mandatory events if they are injured or have private matters, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they opt out.

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