Russian tennis star Daria Kasatkina has officially changed her allegiance to Australia after being granted permanent residency. The 27-year-old, who has openly criticized Russia’s LGBTQ+ policies and opposed the war in Ukraine, has been living in Dubai for the past two and a half years and has not returned to Russia.
Kasatkina, currently ranked No. 12 in the world and a winner of eight singles titles, recently addressed rumors about changing her nationality, particularly after a mix-up with a flag during a WTA Tour draw. She clarified that her move to Australia was not related to Spain, as speculated.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Kasatkina expressed her love for Australia, calling it a welcoming and comforting place where she feels truly at home. She shared her excitement about making Melbourne her base and proudly announced she would be representing Australia in her tennis career moving forward.
“Although some parts of this decision were not easy, I am incredibly grateful to my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me along my tennis journey,” she said. Kasatkina, who publicly came out as gay in a 2022 interview, made the move due to Russia’s strict laws on LGBTQ+ rights. After voicing her opposition to the war in Ukraine, a Russian politician attempted to label her a “foreign agent,” but the attempt failed.
She also acknowledged the potential consequences of her actions, noting that she was prepared for them. In her most recent statement, Kasatkina emphasized her respect for her Russian roots, but expressed her excitement for this new chapter in her career under the Australian flag. “Thank you all for your understanding and support,” she concluded.
This marks a significant moment in Kasatkina’s personal and professional life as she begins this new chapter in her tennis career with Australia.
Daria Kasatkina (born May 7, 1997) is a top Russian tennis player, reaching a career-high No. 8 in the WTA rankings in October 2022. She has won eight singles and one doubles title on the WTA Tour. Encouraged by her athletic parents, Kasatkina started tennis at age six. She excelled in juniors, winning the 2014 French Open junior singles title and the European 16s championship. By 18, she was ranked No. 32 and won her first WTA title at the 2017 Charleston Open. Kasatkina reached the 2018 Indian Wells final and won titles at the Kremlin Cup and St. Petersburg Trophy. After a tough 2019, she rebounded in 2021, earning two titles and returning to the top 30. In 2022, she claimed two more titles and reentered the top 10. Kasatkina was pivotal in Russia’s 2020–21 Billie Jean King Cup win, winning all her matches. Known for her skillful play, she outmaneuvers opponents with speed and quick decision-making.
