"It's very difficult to be as free a person as I want to be" - Daria Kasatkina opens up on her decision to denounce her Russian citizenship

Tennis player Daria Kasatkina recently made headlines after she switched nationalities from Russia to Australia earlier this year, and the WTA star finally broke her silence on why she opted to make that decision.

In addition to being one of the few openly gay stars on the WTA circuit, the former World No.8 has publicly spoken out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Both of these actions are frowned upon in her native land, leading Kasatkina to eventually begin the process of changing nationalities.

In March this year, Kasatkina announced the news that she had been in the process of applying for Australian citizenship due to Russia's restriction of LGBTQ rights, in addition to their invasion of Ukraine. Moving forward, Kasatkina will represent Australia at all tennis events, having become a permanent resident of the Oceanic nation.

With the 2025 US Open only a few days away, Kasatkina made an appearance on the CBS Mornings talk show. The28-year old addressed her defection from Russia, giving more insight into her mindset behind the decision process.

"Can you explain to us what led to this decision to defect from Russia," asked the co-host.

"Well you know, as an openly spoken person and as a gay person as well, with the laws which are running right now in Russia, it's very difficult to be as free a person as I want to be," replied Kasatkina. "This is what led to the decision to switch countries and honestly, right now, I'm honored to represent Australia."

Kasatkina would state she did not fear retaliation from the Russian government, although her family still resides in Russia. The World No.17 would point out that she was a separate individual from her family members, saying every opinion she speaks on comes from her voice alone.

The Australian No.1 kicks off her US Open campaign on Sunday, August 24 against Romanian Elena-Gabriela Ruse. Kasatkina reached the fourth round at last year's edition, making it her best appearance at Flushing Meadows till date.