By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Friday March 28, 2025
There will be no more blank space next to Daria Kasatkina’s name when she competes – instead, an Australian flag.
The former World No.8 and current No.12 announced on Friday that application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian government.
The Togliatty, Russia native has often expressed mixed feelings about the politics of her country. She was critical of Russia's invasian of Ukraine in February of 2022, calling it a "complete nightmare."
Kasatkina, who came out as gay in 2022 when she revealed her relationship with figure skater Natalia Zabiiako, was asked last year if she felt that there was hope for change in Russia.
“My heart is saying yes, my brain is saying no," she said
The 27-year-old reportedly had not been back to her home country since 2022.
“Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home,” Kasatkina wrote on social media regarding her decision. “ 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, and 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.”