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Australia's leading women's tennis player has opted to pause her career for the remainder of the 2025 season, stating she is at her “mental and emotional threshold.”

Reasons Behind the Decision

The tennis professional, who earlier switched her nationality from Russia to Australia, attributed the transition for contributing to significant “mental and emotional strain.”

Further contributors consisted of the continued challenge of being distant from her loved ones and the grueling tour schedule.

“I've been far from fine for a extended duration and, honestly speaking, my on-court achievements show it,” she wrote on digital platforms.

She stated, “Truth is, I've hit a wall and am unable to proceed. I must take a hiatus. A rest from the monotonous daily grind of the tennis circuit, the constant packing, the results, the pressure, the familiar opponents (apologies, ladies), each element involved in this existence.”

Private Difficulties and Return Plans

“I can only handle I can endure and handle as a female athlete, all whilst battling the top competitors in the world.”

“Should this be seen as weakness, then so be it, I am fragile. That said, I know I am strong and will improve by taking time off, resting, regrouping and revitalizing. The moment has come I paid attention to my instincts for a difference, my mind, my emotions and my health.”

The athlete opted to alter nationality after leaving Russia due to apprehensions about her well-being, having openly opposed the country's legislation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and the war on Ukraine. First living in the UAE, she settled in her new home and became a permanent resident in March.

She subsequently became engaged to companion Natalia Zabiiako, who secured a silver medal for her former team at the last Winter Olympics after initially participating for her native Estonia.

The tennis star also revealed she has been unable to visit her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for several years.

Career Context

A French Open semi-finalist in recent years, the player had ended the previous four seasons among the world's best but is currently ranked 19th after a mixed season where she won 19 and lost 21.

She is projected to exit the top 20 by the time the next Grand Slam arrives.

The 28-year-old confirmed she will return in the following season, “refreshed and prepared,” with the lead-in to her domestic major probably acting as a key objective.

Wider Context

The nation's second-ranked player is Maya Joint, holding the 35th position.

The Australian No. 1 is the most recent top WTA competitor to end their season early, following other prominent players, amid a notable increase of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The WTA obligates elite athletes to participate in a required schedule, encompassing the major tournaments, premier tour stops, and additional WTA events.

But world No. 2 the Polish star stated in the past, “There's no way to squeeze it in the calendar. Maybe I will have to choose some competitions and omit them, although they are mandatory.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - possibly disregarding about the regulations and just think what's good for us.”