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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional announced she is at her "limit" and chose to conclude her competitive year early, characterizing the grueling calendar as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old changed her nationality from Russia to Australia in March, following voiced concerns regarding her nation's LGBTQ+ regulations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

She struggled with consistency this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19-21.

The athlete attributed the mental strain from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her father for four years.

She wrote in a detailed post: "I have been not okay for quite a while and, honestly speaking, my results and performances reflect that."

"I have reached breaking point and sadly I am in the same boat as others," she continued.

"Add in the mix 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."

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

"Nonetheless, I believe I am strong and will get stronger by being away and recharging."

"The moment has come I listened to myself for a change."

Other Players Similarly Ending Their Years Prematurely

Ex-elite competitors Elina Svitolina and Badosa have also concluded their campaigns ahead of time in recent weeks.

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

Additional athletes have also spoken about the impact of the tennis calendar.

Five players retired due to injury in a pair of events in the Chinese tournaments recently, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Athlete Issues

The WTA has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.

The bulk of premier tournaments on the WTA and men's ATP Tour last a fortnight, as do each of the Grand Slams.

Competitors can skip required tournaments if they are injured or have private matters, but they will receive no rankings points or prize money if they opt out.

Ex-top ranked player Djokovic, who has slimmed down his tournament appearances in lately to protect his body, has urged players to be better aligned in forcing change.