Daria Kasatkina, the Russian-born tennis player ranked 12th in the world, has officially decided to represent Australia on the WTA Tour, as she announced via social media. Having recently received permanent residency approval from the Australian government, she has been competing as a neutral athlete due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players competing under their own flags following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
In her announcement, Kasatkina expressed her joy, stating, “I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian government. Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming, and a place where I feel totally at home.” She emphasised her fondness for Melbourne, where she looks forward to settling down.
Upon confirming her decision to represent Australia, Kasatkina remarked, “I am proud to announce that I will be representing my new homeland Australia in my professional tennis career from this point onwards.” This significant shift in her career comes in the context of her previous revelations; in 2022, she publicly identified as gay during an interview and highlighted her criticisms of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Following her statements, she faced backlash, including an attempt by a Russian politician to label her a “foreign agent.”
In a statement made in 2024, Kasatkina acknowledged that she anticipated “consequences” for her openness about her views. She reiterated her respect for her Russian heritage but expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter in her life and career under the Australian flag, thanking her supporters for their understanding.
Kasatkina’s journey not only marks a pivotal moment in her tennis career but also reflects broader themes of acceptance, personal freedom, and the complexities athletes can face when navigating their identities in the global spotlight. As she embarks on this new chapter, her story resonates with many, showcasing resilience and the courage to embrace change.