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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional has declared she is at her "limit" and chose to conclude her competitive year ahead of schedule, labeling the demanding calendar as "excessive, psychologically and personally."

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

She struggled for form this year, failing to win a tournament and finishing with a win-loss tally of 19 wins and 21 losses.

The athlete attributed the mental strain from her change of citizenship as a major contributor to her difficulties, which involve not visiting with her father for several years.

She wrote 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 my limit and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.

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

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

"Nonetheless, I believe I am strong and will get stronger by taking a break and recharging."

"The moment has come I heeded myself for a change."

Fellow Athletes Similarly Ending Seasons Early

Former top-five players Svitolina and Badosa similarly ended their seasons early in the past few weeks.

The Ukrainian star stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while the Spanish player has spoken about the psychological impact of an persistent spinal issue.

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

Five players withdrew due to injury in two tournaments in the Chinese tournaments recently, with multiple major winner Iga Swiatek saying the season is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The WTA requires for top players to participate in every Grand Slam, ten premier events and six secondary competitions.

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

Players may miss required tournaments if they are injured or have personal reasons, but they will receive no points for the standings or prize money if they do not play.

Former world number one Djokovic, who has reduced his tournament appearances in recent years to preserve his health, has urged fellow professionals to be more united in forcing change.