Russian tennis player Daria Kasatkina says she “didn’t have much choice” but to switch allegiance to Australia last month because she is an out gay woman and critical of the war in Ukraine.
On Saturday (29 March), the 27-year-old world No. 12 confirmed she would play for Australia in her professional career going forward after the Australian government granted her permanent residency.
Prior to this she had been splitting her time between Dubai and Spain and had not returned to Russia for two-and-half years after coming out as gay in 2022 and revealing she was dating fellow Russian athlete Natalia Zabiiako, an Olympic figure skater.
“With everything going on in my previous country, I didn’t have much choice [to switch allegiance],” she told journalists on Monday (31 April) before her campaign at the Charleston Open, as quoted by BBC Sport.
“For me, being openly gay, if I want to be myself, I have to make this step, and I did it.
“I have to get used to it a little bit, because for a couple of years I didn’t hear anything. But it’s something nice to get used to.”
In recent years, Russia has increasingly cracked down on LGBTQ+ rights under its anti-propaganda law which has led to bar staff and venue owners being jailed, more than 50 club-goers being detained, language-learning app Duolingo being forced to remove inclusive content, children’s cartoon My Little Pony being labelled 18+ and a gay student expelled from university for posting make-up videos.
Those who are also critical of the country’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine also face harsh punishment, with many anti-war activists being fined and thrown in jail for speaking out against the conflict.
Kasatkina went on to say her first day as an Australian player “feels different” and “emotional” but added: “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.”
In her social media post announcing her switch, she said: “I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian Government,” she wrote.
“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. 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.
“Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy. 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.”
In response to her move, a spokesperson for Tennis Australia said: “Daria Kasatkina has informed us that she has been granted permanent residency by the Australian government.
“Tennis Australia warmly welcomes Daria, currently ranked world No.12, to the Australian tennis family. Effective immediately, Daria will compete as an Australian and we wish her all the best for her upcoming tournaments.”
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