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The nation's highest-rated female tennis athlete has opted to take a break throughout the rest of the current year, stating she is at her “mental and emotional threshold.”

Causes of the Choice

The Australian No. 1, who earlier switched her citizenship to represent Australia, attributed the move for contributing to considerable “mental and emotional pressure.”

Additional factors included the persistent struggle of being separated from her relatives and the demanding tour schedule.

“My well-being has suffered for a considerable period and, honestly speaking, my match outcomes and showings reflect that,” she posted on digital platforms.

She continued, “Truth is, I've hit a wall and must stop now. I require time off. A break from the monotonous daily grind of professional tennis, the suitcases, the scores, the expectations, the regular competitors (my apologies, everyone), everything that comes with this life.”

Private Difficulties and Return Plans

“There's only so much I can manage and cope with as a person, all whilst competing with the best female athletes in the world.”

“If this makes me weak, then that's acceptable, I am fragile. However, I know I am strong and will grow by taking time off, resting, regrouping and revitalizing. Now is the moment I listened to myself for a difference, my brain, my emotions and my physical self.”

The athlete decided to change citizenship after departing her home country due to safety concerns, having openly opposed the government's anti-LGBTQ+ laws and the conflict in Ukraine. Originally based in the Middle East, she relocated to her new home and secured long-term status in early this year.

She then announced her engagement to longtime girlfriend a former Olympic figure skater, who previously earned a silver medal for her former team at the PyeongChang Games after initially participating for her birth nation Estonia.

She additionally shared she has been separated from her parent, who stayed behind in Russia, for four years.

Career Context

A Roland Garros final four competitor in 2022, the player had finished the previous four seasons in the elite group but is now 19th after a modest season where she won 19 and lost 21.

She is projected to drop out of the top 20 by the time the next Grand Slam arrives.

The professional athlete announced she plans to come back in the following season, “refreshed and prepared,” with the build-up to her local Grand Slam probably acting as a key objective.

Industry Impact

The nation's next best competitor is Maya Joint, ranked 35th globally.

She is the third elite athlete to withdraw from the tour, following two other stars, amid a growing pattern of athletes withdrawing during competitions.

The WTA requires elite athletes to compete in a minimum of 20 events, including the major tournaments, premier tour stops, and lower-tier matches.

But elite competitor a leading athlete stated recently, “It's just impossible to fit it all in the itinerary. Maybe I will have to select some competitions and skip them, although they are required.

“We have to be smart about it - possibly disregarding about the rules and just think what's healthy for us.”