Daria Kasatkina, the world number 12 in tennis, recently made her debut as an Australian player at the Charleston Open. This marked a significant moment in her career, as she transitioned from representing Russia to embracing her new identity under the Australian flag.
Kasatkina expressed a mix of emotions during her first match as an Australian, describing the experience as both stressful and exhilarating. She admitted to feeling nervous when the announcer introduced her as an Australian player, but her nerves quickly turned into joy as she stepped onto the court. “I just couldn’t stop smiling,” she shared, reflecting on the special moment.
The decision to switch allegiances was not an easy one for Kasatkina. As an openly gay athlete and a vocal critic of the invasion of Ukraine, she faced challenges in her home country. Moving to Australia provided her with a sense of freedom and the opportunity to be herself. She expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her new teammates and Tennis Australia, which has made her transition smoother.
Kasatkina’s debut match in Charleston was a resounding success. She defeated American Lauren Davis in straight sets, showcasing her skill and determination. The victory was particularly meaningful for Kasatkina, as Charleston holds a special place in her heart—it was the site of her first WTA title back in 2017.
Looking ahead, Kasatkina is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as she represents Australia on the global stage. She hopes to continue making an impact both on and off the court, embracing this new chapter in her life with optimism and determination.
Kasatkina in Charleston, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently ranked no.12, Darya achieved a compiled 10-8 match record in 2025. Darya is playing at the moment in Charleston where she conquered Unknown Player bye and the world no.211 Lauren Davis 6-1 6-1.
Daria Kasatkina will fight against the world no.44 Sofia Kenin in the 3rd round on Thursday at 8:30 pm on CREDIT ONE STADIUM. Their actual head to head record is 3-3.
The Australian won 8 titles in her career: 4 on hard courts, 1 on clay courts, 2 on indoor courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of her titles)