Daria Kasatkina, currently ranked 19th in the world, has officially ended her 2025 tennis season. In a deeply personal message shared on social media, she opened up about the emotional toll of life on tour and the challenges she has faced off the court.
Hitting a wall after months of struggle
Kasatkina began her announcement with a reflection on the phrase “I’m fine,” describing it as a mask many women wear while silently enduring hardship. “I’ve hit a wall and I can’t continue,” she wrote, explaining that the relentless travel, pressure, and repetition of the tennis circuit had left her mentally and emotionally depleted.
Her performance this year reflected that struggle. With a 19–21 win-loss record and no titles, Kasatkina admitted that fans could see she wasn’t herself. “My results and performances show that, the fans aren’t stupid, they can see it too,” she said.
Navigating identity and separation
A major source of stress for Kasatkina has been her nationality switch from Russia to Australia. The transition has been emotionally taxing, compounded by her inability to see her parents—especially her father—for four years. She also faces ongoing hurdles in securing full eligibility to compete in Australian events.
Kasatkina, who has been outspoken about her identity and political views, previously told The Times of London she cannot return to Russia “as a gay person who opposes the war”
in Ukraine. These personal convictions have added layers of complexity to her professional life.Choosing rest over resilience
Despite fears of appearing ungrateful or weak, Kasatkina emphasized the importance of listening to her own needs. “If this makes me weak, then so be it, I’m weak. However, I know I am strong,”
she declared, affirming her decision to step away from competition to recharge.She joins a growing number of players, including Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa, who have also ended their seasons early due to emotional or physical strain.
Looking ahead to 2026
Kasatkina concluded her message with optimism, promising fans she will return next year. “I will be just fine though, and look forward to seeing you all in 2026, energised and ready to rock!!” she wrote, signing off with love and hope.
Her decision highlights the increasing awareness of mental health in professional sports and the courage it takes to prioritize well-being over performance.
Daria Kasatkina in 2025
Currently the world no.19, the Australian played her last match on the 27th of September when she surrendered to world no.60 Sonay Kartal 6-3 6-0 in the 2nd round in Beijing (draw).
This year Kasatkina owns an overall 19-22 match record.