Daria Kasatkina is now an Australian citizen. The 27-year-old tennis player gained permanent residency in Australia and will represent her new homeland in her professional career.
What happened?
Kasatkina's application for permanent residency was accepted by the Australian government. She announced the news on Instagram, saying she was delighted to have gained permanent residency.
Why it matters for Daria Kasatkina
Kasatkina has been playing as a neutral athlete after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from competing under their own flags. She has been living in Spain and Dubai and has been a vocal critic of Russia's war with Ukraine.
What comes next?
Tennis Australia welcomed Kasatkina to the Australian tennis family, saying she will compete as an Australian effective immediately. Kasatkina is currently ranked 12th and has been a French Open semifinalist.
Kasatkina said she loves being in Melbourne and looks forward to making her home there. She has been playing on the tour as a neutral athlete since 2022.
On Friday, Kasatkina announced the news on Instagram, saying Australia is a place she loves and feels totally at home. She has been a vocal critic of Russia's war with Ukraine and has been living in Spain and Dubai.
Kasatkina's best career ranking was eighth, and she is an eight-time WTA singles champion. She finished as a French Open semifinalist in 2022.
Tennis Australia said it had been informed that Australia had granted Kasatkina permanent residency. The organization warmly welcomed Kasatkina to the Australian tennis family.
Kasatkina has been open about her relationship with Russian Olympic figure skater Natalia Zabiiako. She has been living in Spain and Dubai for the past two years.
The Australian government accepted Kasatkina's application for permanent residency. She will represent Australia in her professional tennis career from now on.
Kasatkina is excited to start her new life in Australia. She said she loves being in Melbourne and looks forward to making her home there.