“I’ve reached a point where I can’t handle it anymore, and regrettably, I’m not the only one.
“When you factor in the emotional and psychological strain associated with my change in nationality, there’s only so much a person can endure and cope with as an individual woman.
“If this indicates I’m vulnerable, then so be it; I accept that I’m vulnerable.
“However, I recognize that I possess strength and will become even stronger by taking a break and revitalizing myself.
“It’s time I started prioritizing my own needs and desires for a change.”
Both Elina Svitolina and Paula Badosa, previously ranked among the top five players, decided to conclude their seasons prematurely in recent weeks.
Svitolina, representing Ukraine, expressed that she had “not been feeling like her usual self,” while Badosa has discussed the psychological burden of a persistent back issue.
Other athletes have also voiced their opinions regarding the impact of the tennis schedule.
During two tournaments held in China last week, five players were forced to withdraw due to injuries, with Iga Swiatek, a six-time Grand Slam champion, stating that the season is excessively lengthy and demanding.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) mandates that top-ranked players participate in each Grand Slam event, as well as 10 WTA 1000 events and six 500-level tournaments.
The majority of 1000 events on both the WTA and men’s ATP Tour span two weeks, as do all four Grand Slam tournaments.
Players are permitted to abstain from mandatory events in cases of injury or personal circumstances, but they will forfeit rankings points and prize money if they choose not to participate.
Novak Djokovic, a former world number one who has reduced his schedule in recent years to safeguard his physical well-being, has urged players to exhibit greater solidarity, external in order to bring about necessary changes.
