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World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "breaking point" and chose to end her tennis season early, describing the grueling schedule as "too much, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old athlete changed her citizenship from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in the month of March, after voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled with consistency throughout the season, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete linked the emotional stress from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, which involve not visiting with her parent for four years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my results and performances show that."

"I am at my limit and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Add in the mix the emotional and mental stress associated with my citizenship change and there is only so much I can manage and take as an single person."

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

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

"It's time I listened to myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Ending Their Years Early

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

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing back problem.

Additional athletes have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players retired due to injury in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek saying the competitive year is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for elite athletes to compete in each Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits last a fortnight, as do all four Grand Slams.

Competitors can skip mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in lately to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.