Daria Kasatkina won her first Grand Slam match as an Australian player, beating Katerina Siniakova 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 at the French Open on May 27, 2025.

What happened at the French Open?

The 28-year-old made a strong start, taking the first set 6-1, but struggled in the second, losing 3-6.

Kasatkina regained her composure, winning the third set 6-2, to advance to the second round.

Why the nationality switch matters for Daria Kasatkina

Daria Kasatkina switched her nationality from Russia to Australia in March 2025, citing her desire to live 'freely and happy' as an openly homosexual athlete.

The former world number eight has been critical of Russia's attitude towards homosexuality and the war in Ukraine.

What comes next for Daria Kasatkina?

Kasatkina has dropped five places in the ranking since the switch, but rejects suggestions that the two events are linked, saying 'it's a good change'.

The Australian player has not had the chance to visit her new adoptive home since losing at the Australian Open in January, due to a packed tournament schedule.

And she is eager to make the most of her new opportunity, seeking to bring success to Australia.

But Kasatkina's peers on the tour have been supportive of her decision, congratulating her on the switch.

So Kasatkina is focused on her next match, looking to build on her winning start at the French Open.

The former world number eight is determined to make a strong impression as an Australian player, and her win over Siniakova is a promising start.

As Kasatkina said, 'I just feel super happy and proud to also win the first match' as an Australian player.

And she is grateful to Australia for giving her the opportunity to represent the country, saying 'I'm just really thankful to Australia'.

Kasatkina's win over Siniakova is a significant one, marking her first Grand Slam victory as an Australian player.

The 2022 Roland Garros semi-finalist is looking to make a deep run in the tournament, and her win over Siniakova is a step in the right direction.

But Kasatkina knows that she faces tough competition in the tournament, and she will need to be at her best to succeed.

So she is taking it one match at a time, focusing on her next opponent and looking to build on her winning start.

And with her win over Siniakova, Kasatkina is feeling confident and ready for her next challenge.

The Australian player is determined to make the most of her opportunity, and her win at the French Open is just the beginning.