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Australia's highest-rated female tennis athlete has opted to pause her career for the remainder of the tennis calendar, explaining she is at her “emotional and mental limit.”

Factors Leading to the Decision

The Australian No. 1, who this year altered her citizenship to represent Australia, blamed the change for contributing to considerable “psychological strain.”

Further contributors included the persistent struggle of being distant from her loved ones and the relentless circuit routine.

“My well-being has suffered for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court achievements show it,” she wrote on digital platforms.

She added, “The reality is, I've encountered a barrier and am unable to proceed. I require time off. A rest from the tedious cycle of the tennis circuit, the suitcases, the results, the expectations, the familiar opponents (sorry, girls), all aspects of this career.”

Personal Struggles and Upcoming Goals

“There's only so much I can manage and cope with as a person, all whilst battling the top competitors in the world.”

“If people consider this a flaw, then I accept it, I'm weak. But, I believe in my strength and will get stronger by taking time off, resting, recalibrating and renewing. It's time I listened to myself for a difference, my mind, my feelings and my health.”

She decided to change allegiance after departing her nation due to safety concerns, having openly opposed the country's policies affecting the queer community and the conflict in Ukraine. First living in the Middle East, she moved to her new home and secured long-term status in early this year.

She subsequently became engaged to longtime girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, who previously earned a Olympic silver for her birth country at the last Winter Olympics after initially participating for her native Estonia.

She also revealed she has not seen her dad, who still lives in her homeland, for an extended period.

Professional Background

A Roland Garros final four competitor in recent years, the player had concluded the last four calendar years in the elite group but is currently ranked 19th after a challenging season where she had a near-even record.

She is likely to drop out of the top 20 by the time the next Grand Slam arrives.

The tennis veteran stated she plans to come back in the following season, “recharged and motivated,” with the preparation for her local Grand Slam probably acting as a key objective.

Wider Context

Australia's current No. 2 is Maya Joint, placed 35th in the world.

She is the latest top WTA competitor to end their season early, following two other stars, amid a growing pattern of competitors stopping mid-game.

The tour governing body mandates elite athletes to appear at a required schedule, encompassing the four grand slams, premier tour stops, and six 500-level tournaments.

But world No. 2 Iga Swiatek stated last month, “It's not feasible to squeeze it in the calendar. Perhaps I will have to select some competitions and omit them, although they are obligatory.

“It's essential to plan wisely about it - possibly disregarding about the rules and just consider what's healthy for us.”