Daria Kasatkina was regarded as an ascending player during the initial half-decade of her professional career. Her tennis was characterized by a focus on intelligence rather than brute force, and she employed her racquet as a scalpel rather than a high-powered weapon. Dasha was her appellation in the tennis community. She did not have a reputation for being particularly outspoken or political.
Then, in February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, and she denounced her country for it.
Kasatkina responded, “Of course I was, when asked whether she was taken aback by the extent of her fortitude in speaking out.”
Two years ago, Kasatkina called Russia’s invasion of Ukraine “a full-blown nightmare.”
How What is her current perspective on the resolution of that nightmare? She replied, “I am uncertain.” “In all honesty, I am unable to envision the conclusion at this time.” It appears to be immobile and unable to move. I am solely interested in completing the task as soon as possible. In the manner of a hellish circumstance. Finally, it has been an excessive amount of time.
FiveFive months after the invasion, Kasatkina, emboldened, made another statement that she knew could provoke backlash in Russia, a country that is renowned for its hostility toward homosexual rights: was in a relationship with Natasha Zabiiako, a former Olympic skater and another Russian athlete.
When”The reaction was deafening!” Kasatkina exclaimed when she disclosed her relationship on social media. However, I never harbor any remorse for it, as I am aware that it was causing me to feel so constricted. I was unable to be entirely authentic in both my personal life and on the tennis court, as they are all interconnected. I experienced a significant improvement in my overall well-being subsequent to this event.
This salvo of candor significantly changed her life and status, particularly in relation to her native country.
Asked She responded, “Well, not precisely with Russia,” when asked if her relationship with Russia is complicated. I have a deep affection for my country. Therefore, I spent a significant amount of quality time there prior to the commencement of the conflict. I derive immense pleasure from returning to that location and spending time with my family and friends. the impression that there was a fish in the water.
“I doubt it,” she exclaimed with a chuckle.
She was bored She was born in Tolyatti, a large industrial city that is 600 miles east of Moscow and divided by the Volga River. Kasatkina was naturally inclined toward tennis due to her athleticism. In 2018, at the age of 21, she was one of the world’s best players, having won tournaments after turning professional as a teenager. in returning home during the tour’s intermissions.
No more. SheThere will be no more. She has not returned to Russia since the invasion commenced over two years ago. It is evident that she is not well-received in certain areas. politician advocated for her classification as a foreign agent.
“Well, yes, “Indeed, this individual is employed by the sports ministry,” Kasatkina said. “Consequently, his objective is to enhance the quality of athletics in our nation and provide assistance to athletes.” This action does not appear to be precisely as described. his endeavors were unsuccessful.
Though three Despite the fact that three of her siblings have relocated to Canada, her elderly parents have elected to remain in Russia. Kasatkina stated, “I am perpetually concerned about them and the individuals I cherish.” “I have the right to my own opinions.” However, they are my parents. For them to respect my decisions, I must also respect theirs.
Now 27, she She is currently 27 years old and travels around the world from tournament to tournament. Nevertheless, she resides in containers and installs training blocks whenever and wherever she can, as she lacks a permanent residence. She is a tennis nomad and a tennis champion at the same time. One week, she is in Dubai, and the following week, she is at a tennis academy in Spain. “Sunday Morning” encountered her in April during a rare off-week. “Essentially, the most enjoyable day off is one in which I am free to act on my own accord and do whatever comes to mind at a given moment,” he stated.
She is not the only one. ne. She and Zabiiako travel extensively together, pursuing the lifestyle they believe is unattainable in Russia.
When she initially encountered Kasatkina, Zabiiako asserted that she was acquainted with tennis to a limited extent. Since then, she has been touring the circuit.
produce a popular video series on YouTube to chronicle their voyage, both literally and metaphorically, and perhaps to establish a sense of place. be. Dasha promptly observes that Natasha is responsible for the bulk of the work.
Cite the fact that we have a shared activity,” expressed Zabiiako.. “I appreciate the fact that it allows you to unwind a bit, as the situation is quite challenging, and you can enjoy yourself a bit more.”
However, Kasatkina also addresses more significant subjects on the internet.
Kasatkina responded, “Well, I believe I have not yet crossed this boundary,” when asked whether she is concerned about the potential consequences of the Russian government’s actions on her and her family.
Does she believe that there is a boundary that she is aware of and will not cross?
She stated, “There is always a boundary.”
She has not disregarded the possibility of returning to Russia; in fact, she is enthusiastic about the prospect.
Yes, there are regulations that are homophobic.
“I always dreamed of the day when I could do the proper thing when I grew up,” she told us.
Her performance has not been adversely affected by her activism; she is currently performing at a high level. well as ever. She denies any suggestion that she is following in the footsteps of tennis players Billie Jean King, Arthur Ashe, and Martina Navratilova, who utilized their platforms to draw attention to injustice.
However, her moral strength has had a significant impact on her partner.
Zabiiako and Kasatkina both stated that they have “zero misgivings” about the manner in which they have conducted themselves and come out over the past two years.
Kasatkina’s message to her fellow Russians is straightforward: “Do not be frightened.”
