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World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to end her competitive year early, characterizing the intense calendar as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in the month of March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

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

The athlete linked the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a significant factor to her difficulties, which included not visiting with her father for four years.

She expressed in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances show that."

"I have reached breaking point and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Combine the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can deal with and endure as an single person."

"If this makes me weak, then so be it, I am not strong enough," she stated.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and recharging."

"It's time I heeded myself for a change."

Other Players Similarly Ending Their Years Early

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

The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the mental toll of an ongoing spinal issue.

Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tennis calendar.

A quintet of competitors withdrew due to injury in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments last week, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Athlete Concerns

The WTA has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in each major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last a fortnight, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Players can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have personal reasons, but they will receive no rankings points or prize money if they opt out.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to preserve his health, has called on players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.