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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional stated she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her competitive year early, characterizing the demanding schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

The 28-year-old athlete switched her nationality from the Russian Federation to Australia in the month of March, following public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ laws and the war in Ukraine.

Her performance suffered for form this year, not managing to secure a title 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 difficulties, which included not visiting with her parent for several years.

She expressed in a lengthy statement: "I have been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings reflect that."

"I have reached breaking point and unfortunately I am not alone," she continued.

"Combine the mix the psychological pressure related to my citizenship change and there is only so much I can manage and take as an single person."

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

"However, I believe I am strong and will grow stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

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

Other Players Similarly Halting Their Years Prematurely

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly ended their campaigns ahead of time in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not felt like myself", while the Spanish player has discussed the mental toll of an persistent spinal issue.

Other players have also spoken about the effect of the tennis calendar.

Five players retired due to injury in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments last week, with multiple major winner Swiatek saying the competitive year is "too long and intense."

Tour Regulations and Player Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for top players to compete in each Grand Slam, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do all four major championships.

Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will not get any rankings points or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.