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World number 19 Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "limit" and chose to conclude her competitive year early, characterizing the demanding schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in March, following voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in the Ukrainian region.

Her performance suffered for form this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete attributed the emotional stress from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her difficulties, which included not seeing her parent for four years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, my on-court showings show that."

"I am at my limit and unfortunately I am not alone," she added.

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

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.

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

"It's time I heeded myself for once."

Other Players Similarly Ending Their Years Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their seasons early in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has discussed the mental toll of an ongoing back problem.

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the effect of the tennis calendar.

Five players retired injured in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

WTA Requirements and Player Issues

The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do all four major championships.

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

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.