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World number 19 the tennis professional stated she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to end her competitive year early, labeling the demanding schedule as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

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

She struggled for form this year, not managing to win a tournament and concluding with a record of 19-21.

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

She wrote in a detailed post: "I have been far from fine for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

"I have reached my limit and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Add in the situation the emotional and mental stress associated with my nationality switch and I can only handle so much I can deal with and endure as an individual woman."

"If this makes me weak, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

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

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

Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Seasons Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also ended their campaigns early in recent weeks.

The Ukrainian star mentioned she had "not been feeling like myself", while the Spanish player has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing spinal issue.

Other players have voiced concerns about the impact of the tour schedule.

A quintet of competitors withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in China recently, with six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek commenting the season is "excessively lengthy and demanding."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

The WTA has made it mandatory for top players to compete in every major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the women's and men's circuits run for two weeks, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will not get any points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Ex-top ranked player Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has called on players to be better aligned in advocating for reforms.