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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "breaking point" and has decided to conclude her tennis season early, labeling the grueling schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in March, after public criticism regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the war in the Ukrainian region.

She struggled for form throughout the season, failing to secure a title and concluding with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a major contributor to her challenges, which involve not seeing her parent for four years.

She expressed in a detailed post: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

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

"Combine the situation the emotional and mental stress related to my nationality switch and there is only so much I can deal with and take as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as fragile, then I accept it, I am not strong enough," she remarked.

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

"The moment has come I listened to my own needs for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Halting Seasons Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa similarly concluded their campaigns early in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has discussed the psychological impact of an ongoing back problem.

Other players have also spoken about the impact of the tour schedule.

Five players retired due to injury in a pair of events in China recently, with multiple major winner Swiatek commenting the season is "too long and intense."

Tour Requirements and Athlete Issues

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) requires for top players to participate in each major tournament, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

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

Players can skip required tournaments if they are hurt or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings or financial rewards if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in recent years to protect his body, has called on fellow professionals to be more united in advocating for reforms.