In a significant personal and professional shift, Russian-born tennis star Daria Kasatkina has announced that she will represent Australia in her career going forward after securing permanent residency in the country.
The 27-year-old has been competing as a neutral athlete for some time, a status brought on by the 2022 ban against Russian and Belarusian players participating under their national flags due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
A Bold Move Amid Political and Personal Challenges
Kasatkina, currently ranked No.12 in the world, has not returned to Russia in over two years.
This is largely due to her outspoken stance against the war in Ukraine, as well as her decision to come out as gay in a video interview in 2022.
Her public opposition to the war, combined with her sexuality, has made it unsafe for her to go back to her homeland.
In an emotional Instagram post, Kasatkina shared the joy of her new beginnings in Australia, expressing her excitement about the next phase of her life.
She wrote, “I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian Government.”
She further elaborated on her love for the country, saying, “Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming, and a place where I feel totally at home.”
A New Home and a New Flag
Kasatkina revealed her plans to make Melbourne her new home, and with it, a commitment to represent Australia in her professional tennis career.
“I will be representing my new homeland Australia, in my professional tennis career from this point onwards,” she stated.
However, she acknowledged that the decision was not an easy one, expressing deep gratitude for the support from her family, coaches, and everyone who has stood by her side throughout her tennis journey.
Despite the challenges, she made it clear that she would always hold her Russian roots in high regard, but she was excited to start a new chapter under the Australian flag.
“I will always have respect and fond appreciation for my roots,” she added.
Welcomed With Open Arms
The tennis community, especially in Australia, has warmly welcomed Kasatkina. Tennis Australia’s official account expressed excitement with the message, “Welcome to the Aussie tennis family,” while her good friend Daria Saville added a personal touch, writing, “new neighbour.”
Kasatkina’s decision to switch allegiances makes her Australia’s new women’s No.1 player, a title she takes up after the retirement of Ash Barty.
With a career-high ranking of No.8, eight WTA titles, and a semi-final appearance at the French Open in 2022, Kasatkina is a formidable player on the tour.
A Promising Future for Australian Tennis
Kasatkina’s decision solidifies her position as Australia’s top-ranked female player.
She ranks ahead of other high-profile Australian players such as Kim Birrell, Ajla Tomljanovic, Olivia Gadecki, and Daria Saville.
She also recently achieved her best-ever result at the Australian Open, reaching the fourth round for the first time.
Kasatkina joins a growing list of athletes who have switched their national eligibility, including Daria Saville, Ajla Tomljanovic, and Arina Rodionova, further strengthening Australian tennis.
With a storied career ahead, she is now poised to represent her adopted country on the world stage.
Looking Ahead
As Kasatkina embarks on this new chapter of her life and career, her commitment to Australia represents both a personal and professional transformation.
It also underscores the complex realities faced by athletes navigating political landscapes while striving to maintain their careers.
With a supportive new home and a bright future ahead, Kasatkina is ready to take on the world as Australia’s rising tennis star.