Russian-born tennis star Daria Kasatkina has announced she will switch allegiance to Australia after her application for permanent residency was accepted.
The world No. 12 revealed the news on social media this week, expressing her delight at the decision.
Kasatkina, 27, has been a prominent figure in tennis not only for her on-court achievements but also for her outspoken views on Russia's invasion of Ukraine and LGBTQ+ rights.
The announcement marks a significant change for the eight-time singles champion who has not returned to Russia in two and a half years.
Daria Kasatkina has announced she will switch allegiance to Australia
Reuters
She has previously been living in Dubai while competing on the WTA Tour.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Kasatkina expressed her fondness for her new home country.
"Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home," she wrote.
"I love being in Melbourne and look forward to making my home there."
The tennis star acknowledged the difficulty of her decision but expressed excitement about her future.
"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," Kasatkina said.
She thanked her family, coaches and supporters throughout her tennis journey to date.
Kasatkina has been openly critical of Russia's stance on LGBTQ+ rights since coming out as gay in a video interview in 2022.
She has also strongly opposed Russia's war in Ukraine, previously describing it as a "nightmare".
Daria Kasatkina also condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine
Reuters
These positions have made her return to Russia difficult, and she has not been back to her birth country in two and a half years.
Last month, there was confusion when a WTA Tour draw ceremony mistakenly displayed a Spanish flag next to her name.
Kasatkina quickly denied suggestions she had switched to Spanish nationality, with her Australian move now clarifying her status.
Australia have welcomed Daria Kasatkina to their ranks
PA
Tennis Australia has warmly welcomed Kasatkina to their ranks with a heartfelt message on social media.
"A warm welcome to the Aussie tennis family, Dasha," the organisation posted, accompanied by a heart emoji.
With eight singles titles to her name, Kasatkina brings considerable experience and talent to her new sporting nation.
