Former player and current Nine commentator John Millman has expressed that Daria Kasatkina’s recent decision to represent Australia significantly enhances the country’s prospects in the Billie Jean King Cup. The Russian-born player announced on Saturday that she has received permanent residency in Australia and will start competing for her new nation right away.
At 27 years of age, Kasatkina holds the 12th position in the world rankings and boasts a career-high ranking of No. 8, alongside a notable run to the semi-finals at Roland Garros. Despite her accomplishments, she is yet to claim a WTA title. Millman highlighted that Australia has lacked a top-tier female player since Ash Barty’s retirement, making Kasatkina’s inclusion a timely boost for Australian women’s tennis.
Millman shared his thoughts during an appearance on Nine’s Weekend Today, stating that although the Australian men’s tennis scene has been thriving, the women’s side has lacked depth and a prominent name since Barty stepped away from the sport. He emphasised that acquiring a ready-made world No. 12 is a significant advancement for Australian tennis.
There are also discussions about Kasatkina’s potential participation in the Billie Jean King Cup, which could further enhance Australia’s chances of victory. Millman remarked that the conversation about her switch began during the Australian Open in January, signifying that this move has been in the works for some time.
Kasatkina has previously faced challenges, having trained in Dubai and Spain after being ostracised from Russia due to her outspoken views against the Russian invasion of Ukraine in a candid 2022 interview. In that same interview, she also publicly came out as gay, which led to attempts by Russian authorities to label her as a foreign agent.
As Kasatkina joins the ranks of Australian players, she will immediately take the lead in the rankings, now becoming Australia’s top female player, surpassing others like Kim Birrell and Ajla Tomljanovic. Other players, such as Daria Saville and the Rodionova sisters, have made similar transitions in the past.
Kasatkina is set to make her debut representing Australia at the Charleston Open on Wednesday (AEDT), marking a new chapter in her career. This change is not only a win for her personally but may also invigorate the Australian tennis landscape as they look to build a competitive team for international representation.