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World number 19 the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her tennis season ahead of schedule, describing the demanding schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled with consistency this year, failing to win a tournament and concluding with a record of 19-21.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her difficulties, which involve not seeing her parent for four years.

She expressed in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for quite a while and, truth be told, my results and performances show that."

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

"Add in the situation the psychological pressure related to my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can manage and take as an single person."

"If this makes me fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

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

Fellow Athletes Also Halting Seasons Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Badosa similarly concluded their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.

The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not been feeling like myself", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players retired due to injury in a pair of events in China last week, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to participate in every major tournament, ten premier events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for two weeks, as do all four major championships.

Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they opt out.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in recent years to protect his body, has called on players to be better aligned in forcing change.