World number 12 Daria Kasatkina changes allegiances to Australia

Tennis in Australia has received a massive boost after one of the top players in the world switched her allegiance to Down Under.

Australian tennis has received a massive boost with world number 12 Daria Kasatkina defecting Down Under.

The Russian born star, who turned pro in 2014, announced she would now be representing Australia after being granted permanent residency by the government.

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The 27-year-old previously revealed she could not return to Russia, stating it wasn’t safe for her “as a gay person who opposes the war”.

The eight-time title winner announced her defection to Australia in an Instagram post on Saturday morning.

“I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian Government,” she wrote.

“Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home. I love being in Melbourne and look forward to making my home there.

“As part of this, I am proud to announce that I will be representing my new homeland, Australia, in my professional tennis career from this point onwards.

Kasatkina (left) has defected to Australia. Credit: Instagram

“Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy. I want to express my thanks and gratitude to my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout my tennis journey to date.

“I will always have respect and fond appreciation for my roots, but I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my career and my life under the Australian flag. Thank you all for your understanding and continued support.”

The Australian Open’s official account responded: “Dasha Down Under. A warm welcome.”

The Tennis Australia account wrote: “Welcome to the Aussie tennis family.”

Fellow Russian-born Aussie Daria Saville commented: “New neighbour.”

The Russian born star is now an Aussie. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Kasatkina will now become Australia’s top ranked female player on tour, becoming the only player inside the WTA’s top 50.

The 27-year-old will don the Australian flag for the upcoming French Open with hopes high the country’s grand slam drought can be ended.

Not since Ash Barty won the Australian Open in 2022 have Aussie fans entered the female draw of a tournament with a key chance to win it all.

Kasatkina made the fourth round at Melbourne Park earlier this year, and has made it to the second week of all four grand slams, including a quarter-final at Wimbledon as well as her semi-final appearance at Roland Garros in 2022.

She has won eight WTA titles across her career and reached a career-high ranking of eighth in the world three years ago.

Originally published as World number 12 Daria Kasatkina changes allegiances to Australia