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World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, characterizing the grueling schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."

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

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19-21.

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

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Combine the situation the emotional and mental stress related to my citizenship change and I can only handle so much I can deal with and take as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as fragile, then so be it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"However, I know I am resilient and will grow stronger by taking a break and recharging."

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

Fellow Athletes Also Halting Seasons Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in recent weeks.

The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not felt like myself", while Badosa has spoken about the mental toll of an ongoing back problem.

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

Five players withdrew due to injury in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

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

The majority of 1000 events on the WTA and men's ATP Tour run for a fortnight, as do all four major championships.

Competitors may miss required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any points for the standings or financial rewards if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has called on players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.