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World number 19 the tennis professional announced she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, characterizing the intense schedule as "too much, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her nationality from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in Ukraine.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, not managing to secure a title and concluding with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which included not visiting with her parent for several 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 unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Combine the mix the psychological pressure associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can deal with and endure as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as weak, then I accept it, I'm weak," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I believe I am resilient and will grow stronger by being away and recharging."

"It's time I heeded my own needs for once."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Their Years Early

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also ended their seasons early in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt like myself", while the Spanish player has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players withdrew injured in a pair of events in China last week, with multiple major winner Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."

Tour Regulations and Athlete Concerns

The WTA requires for elite athletes to participate in each Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for a fortnight, as do each of the major championships.

Players may miss mandatory events if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.