"I feel much better to be open": Kasatkina doesn't regret coming out as gay, reveals WTA players both supportive and unsupportive

Friday, 07 July 2023 at 13:00

Russia’s Daria Kasatkina has stated that she does not regret revealing her sexual orientation.

The 26-year-old is one of the most outspoken woman players on the tennis circuit and she announced last year in July that she was gay.

The development surprised a few considering Kasatkina belongs to a country where homosexuality is not allowed.

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However, the 2022 French Open semifinalist, while speaking about it, said that she feels ‘much better’ after the revelation last year.

"It's hard, but at the same time, I feel much better to be open,” she said. “I had to choose, I am in the closet and I am not saying anything, but I don't feel good inside or I come out with this and, ok I have to face a few problems, but to be myself and I made the right choice for myself and I don't regret it at all.

"Unfortunately, I come from a country where everything is very strict. It is what it is and I have to accept this and I'm happy to be myself and if this means I have to face this problem, it's my choice. For me, it's most important how I feel inside myself."

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Kasatkina has been in sublime form in Wimbledon 2023 where she has already booked her place in the third round.

The Tolyatti-born defeated America’s Caroline Dolehide in the round of 128 in straight sets with a score of 6-1, 6-4. In the round of 64, she outclassed Britain’s Jodie Anna Burrage in straight sets with a score of 6-0, 6-2.

Kasatkina will now face the former world number one three-time Grand Slam winner Belarus’ Victoria Azarenka in the round of 32 on Friday.

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@rolandgarros semifinalist Daria Kasatkina heading to Hamburg! 🔥🤩 She is also already in the third round at @Wimbledon ! Good luck in London 💛

8:10 AM · Jul 7, 2023

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Azeem Siddiqui

Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.

He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.

In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.

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