Overview
- Kasatkina halted her 2025 season in October, citing emotional strain from the tour and the stress of seeking full Australian eligibility.
- She described the first weeks away as “a disaster” but says she now feels “finally recharged” ahead of competition.
- Her 2026 campaign is slated to open at the Brisbane International on Sunday, a lead‑in to the Australian Open.
- The former world No. 8 is ranked No. 37, making a Melbourne seeding unlikely, and she remains ineligible for the Billie Jean King Cup.
- She said she chose Australia for safety and acceptance and has not returned to Russia for over two years after coming out and criticizing the war, as fellow Australians Storm Hunter and Daria Saville voiced support.