Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Tennis Star Daria Kasatkina Granted Australian Permanent Residency, Set to Represent New Nation
In a significant move in the world of professional tennis, Russian-born player Daria Kasatkina is set to represent Australia after successfully obtaining permanent residency. The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) world No. 12, who has been competing as a neutral athlete, announced her decision to switch allegiances following the approval of her application by the Australian government.
Kasatkina’s Decision Driven by Safety and Principles
Since 2022, Russian and Belarusian players have been barred from competing under their national flags due to the conflict in Ukraine. For Kasatkina, the decision to seek residency in Australia is deeply personal. She has not returned to Russia in over two years, having publicly come out as gay and voiced her opposition to the war in Ukraine in 2022.
Citing safety concerns related to her sexual orientation and anti-war stance, Kasatkina has described returning to Russia as “unsafe” and “not possible.”
Embracing Australia as Home
Expressing her enthusiasm in an Instagram post, Kasatkina conveyed her delight at being granted permanent residency and her plans to relocate to Melbourne. “I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian Government,” she stated.
She further elaborated on her connection with the country, saying:
- “Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home.”
- “I love being in Melbourne and look forward to making my home there.”
Kasatkina also announced her national switch in professional tennis. “As part of this, I am proud to announce that I will be representing my new homeland Australia, in my professional tennis career from this point onwards.”
Gratitude and New Beginnings
Acknowledging the weight of her decision, Kasatkina expressed gratitude to her support network. “Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy,” she admitted.
She continued, “I want to express my thanks and gratitude to my family, coaches and everyone who has supported me throughout my tennis journey to date. I will always have respect and fond appreciation for my roots, but I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my career and my life under the Australian flag. Thank you all for your understanding and continued support.”
Warm Welcome from Australian Tennis Community
Tennis Australia’s official social media account welcomed Kasatkina with the message, “Welcome to the Aussie tennis family.” Fellow player Daria Saville, also an Australia-based player, playfully commented, “new neighbour.”
Kasatkina’s Tennis Career and Australian Tennis Landscape
The 27-year-old Kasatkina boasts a distinguished tennis career, having reached a career-high ranking of world No. 8 and securing eight WTA titles. Her best Grand Slam performance was at the French Open in 2022, where she reached the semi-finals.
Kasatkina joins a growing list of players, including Daria Saville, Ajla Tomljanovic, and Arina Rodionova, who have switched allegiances to represent Australia.
Impact on Australian Women’s Tennis Rankings
Kasatkina’s move will significantly impact the Australian women’s tennis landscape. She is poised to become Australia’s new women’s No. 1 player, filling the void left by Ash Barty’s retirement, and is currently the highest-ranked Australian player. Current top-ranked Australian women behind Kasatkina include:
- Kim Birrell (No. 68)
- Joint (No. 80)
- Ajla Tomljanovic (No. 88)
- Olivia Gadecki (No. 99)
- Daria Saville (No. 105)
Kasatkina’s Grand Slam Achievements
Kasatkina’s Grand Slam highlights include reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open in Melbourne earlier this year. She is also a former Wimbledon quarter-finalist and has twice reached the fourth round of the US Open.
Billie Jean King Cup Victory
Adding to her accomplishments, Kasatkina was part of the Russian team that won the Billie Jean King Cup (formerly Federation Cup) in 2020-21.