Kasatkina, who was born in Russia, claims she will now represent Australia

World No. 12 Daria Kasatkina, who was born in Russia, declared on Friday that she will now play for Australia after the government approved her application for permanent residency.

Since Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine prohibited Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing under their own flags, Kasatkina has been participating in the tour as a neutral athlete.

Kasatkina, who came out as homosexual and is one of the few Russian players who has publicly opposed the war, lives in Dubai and hasn’t been back to Russia in over two years.

She stated, “Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming, and a place where I feel totally at home,” in an Instagram post.

She declared, “I love being in Melbourne and look forward to making my home there,” and promised to start serving her new country right away.

She said, “Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy,” before expressing gratitude to her supporters, coaches, and family.

“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.”

The 27-year-old has won eight WTA championships and peaked at number eight in the world rankings. Her best Grand Slam performance was reaching the French Open semifinals in 2022.