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World number 19 Daria Kasatkina stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her competitive year early, labeling the grueling schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old athlete switched her citizenship from Russia to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled for form throughout the season, not managing to win a tournament and concluding with a record of 19-21.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, 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 have reached breaking point and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Combine the situation the psychological pressure associated with my nationality switch and there is only so much I can deal with and take as an single person."

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

"However, I believe I am resilient and will get stronger by being away and restoring my energy."

"The moment has come I heeded my own needs for a change."

Other Players Also Ending Seasons Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their seasons early in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling like myself", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an persistent spinal issue.

Other players have also spoken about the impact of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors retired due to injury in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

Tour Regulations and Athlete Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to participate in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Players may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has reduced his schedule in lately to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.