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World number 19 Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her competitive year ahead of schedule, labeling the demanding calendar as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, following voiced concerns regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in Ukraine.

She struggled for form throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not seeing her parent for several years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I have been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

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

"Combine the mix the psychological pressure associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can manage and endure as an individual woman."

"If this makes me fragile, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

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

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

Fellow Athletes Also Ending Seasons Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Badosa have also concluded their seasons early in the past few weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an persistent back problem.

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

Five players retired injured in two tournaments in China recently, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

Tour Requirements and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to participate in each Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for two weeks, as do each of the major championships.

Players can skip mandatory events if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in recent years to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.