In a groundbreaking turn of events, tennis sensation Daria Kasatkina has shocked the sports world by revealing her switch in nationality from Russian to Australian. The world No. 12 made this announcement just in time for her debut representing Australia at the Charleston Open, where she is competing as an Aussie for the very first time.
The 27-year-old star disclosed that her decision to leave Russia and embrace Australian residency was primarily driven by her open sexuality. Coming out in 2022 and sharing her relationship with Russian-Estonian figure skater Natalia Zabiiako, Kasatkina explained, “With everything going on in my previous country, I didn’t have much choice. For me, being openly gay, if I want to be myself, I have to make this step, and I did it.”
Not only did Kasatkina denounce Russia’s actions in the war against Ukraine, but she also expressed her relief in being able to authentically be herself in a country like Australia. She highlighted the warm welcome and acceptance she received from Tennis Australia, emphasizing the support and initiative that paved the way for her to start anew Down Under.
Reflecting on her new chapter as an Australian athlete, Kasatkina shared, “It’s my first official day as an Australian player. Honestly, it feels different, I’m not going to lie. It’s emotional for me. I have to get used to it. But I’m really happy to start this new chapter of my life representing Australia on the big stage.”
As Kasatkina makes her debut as an Australian player at the Charleston Open, where she holds the No. 5 seed, all eyes are on her as she embarks on this transformative journey in her professional tennis career. With a bye into the second round, the tennis star is set to face tough competition, marking the beginning of an exciting new era in her sporting life.