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Ranked 19th globally the tennis professional announced she is at her "limit" and has decided to conclude her competitive year early, characterizing the intense schedule as "excessive, mentally and emotionally."

The 28-year-old switched her nationality from the Russian Federation to the Australian nation in March, following public criticism regarding her home country's LGBTQ+ laws and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

She struggled with consistency this year, not managing to secure a title and finishing with a record of 19-21.

The athlete linked the mental strain from her nationality switch as a significant factor to her challenges, which included not seeing her father for four years.

She wrote in a lengthy statement: "I've been far from fine for a long time and, honestly speaking, my on-court showings show that."

"I am at breaking point and unfortunately I am in the same boat as others," she added.

"Combine the situation the emotional and mental stress related to my citizenship change and there is only so much I can deal with and endure as an individual woman."

"Should this label me as fragile, then I accept it, I'm weak," she remarked.

"Nonetheless, I know I am strong and will grow stronger by taking a break and restoring my energy."

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

Other Players Also Halting Their Years Early

Former top-five players Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa have also ended their seasons ahead of time in recent weeks.

Ukraine's Svitolina stated she had "not been feeling her usual self", while Badosa has spoken about the psychological impact of an ongoing back problem.

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

A quintet of competitors retired due to injury in two tournaments in China last week, with multiple major winner Swiatek commenting the competitive year is "too long and intense."

WTA Requirements and Player Concerns

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has made it mandatory for elite athletes to participate in every major tournament, 10 WTA 1000 events and six secondary competitions.

The majority of 1000 events on the women's and men's circuits last two weeks, as do all four Grand Slams.

Competitors can skip mandatory events if they are hurt or have private matters, but they will not get any rankings points or financial rewards if they do not play.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic, who has slimmed down his schedule in recent years to preserve his health, has urged fellow professionals to be better aligned in forcing change.