Daria Kasatkina, the Russian-born tennis star currently ranked 12th in the world, has officially announced that she will represent Australia in future competitions. This decision follows the Australian government’s approval of her application for permanent residency. Expressing her enthusiasm on Instagram, Kasatkina wrote, “Australia is a place I love, incredibly welcoming, and where I feel totally at home.”
The 27-year-old athlete has been competing as a neutral player since 2022 after Russian and Belarusian athletes were banned from competing under their national flags due to geopolitical tensions. Kasatkina has been an outspoken critic of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling the conflict a “full-blown nightmare.” Her political stance has made returning to Russia difficult.
In addition to her opposition to the war, Kasatkina publicly came out as gay in 2022 and revealed her relationship with Olympic figure skater Natalia Zabiiako. She has openly spoken about the challenges of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in Russia, stating, “Living in the closet is impossible. It is too hard, it is pointless.” These personal and political factors influenced her decision to seek residency in Australia.
TENNIS AUSTRALIA’S WELCOME MESSAGE
Kasatkina has not returned to Russia in over two years due to safety concerns related to her public statements and personal identity. During this time, she has lived in Spain and Dubai. Her recent move to Melbourne signifies an important step in establishing a new home and embracing a future under the Australian flag.
Tennis Australia has welcomed Kasatkina’s decision, stating, “Effective immediately, Daria will compete as an Australian, and we wish her all the best for her upcoming tournaments.” This transition not only provides her with a new sense of belonging but also strengthens Australian tennis with the addition of an experienced and highly ranked player.
Throughout her career, Kasatkina has achieved significant milestones, including reaching the semifinals of the French Open in 2022 and attaining a career-high ranking of eighth. Her decision to represent Australia adds depth to the country’s tennis landscape and could enhance its presence in international competitions.
While acknowledging the difficulty of her decision, Kasatkina expressed gratitude towards her family, coaches, and supporters. She emphasized her respect for her roots but conveyed excitement about beginning this new chapter. Her journey reflects a profound commitment to personal authenticity and professional growth within a supportive environment, marking a new era in her career under the Australian flag.
