Back in 2022, the Russian ace Daria Kasatkina didn’t just openly come out as gay, criticizing her country’s stance on homosexuality, she boldly called for peace amidst the war in Ukraine, earning applause from the tennis community, including the Ukrainian players Elina Svitolina as well. Now, nearly three years after leaving her home soil behind, Kasatkina has taken another major step. She’s officially embraced a new nationality, ready to start fresh and continue her journey under a new flag. Which country has she chosen to call home?

The World No. 12 Kasatkina has long stood out, not just for her talent on the court, but for her courage off it. Openly gay, Kasatkina has also used her platform to advocate for freedom and acceptance, sharing glimpses of her life and travels with her partner Natalia Zabiiako through social media and video content. Her powerful voice first echoed loudly in 2022 when she described the war as a “full-blown nightmare” during interviews in Barcelona with Russian blogger Vitya Kravchenko.

Now, Kasatkina, who has been away from Russia since 2022, has decided to leave her native country forever. Just a while back, the 27-year-old shared a post on her IG account with an Australian flag, writing, “I am pleased to announce that my application for permanent residence has been accepted by the Australian Government. Australia is a place I love, incredibly welcoming, and where I feel at home. I love being in Melbourne and am looking forward to settling there. As part of this, I am proud to announce that I will represent my new country, Australia, in my professional tennis career from now on.”

Continuing further, she added, “Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy. I want to express my gratitude to my family, my coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout my tennis career to date. I will always have respect and appreciation for my roots, but I am delighted to start this new chapter of my career and life under the Australian flag. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”

For the last two years, Kasatkina has competed on tour as a neutral athlete, following the ban on Russian and Belarusian players from representing their national flags after Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022. Having not set foot in Russia since coming out as gay and speaking against the war, the 8-time WTA singles title holder previously settled in Dubai.

Her integrity was on full display during the 2023 French Open when, despite a tense political backdrop, she offered a respectful thumbs-up to Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina after their match, even as the court crowd booed her for the absence of a handshake. Later, Kasatkina admitted the crowd’s reaction left her with a “very bitter feeling,” but her quiet show of respect spoke louder than the noise, revealing the depth of her character both on and off the court. No wonder she is receiving heartwarming responses after her recent announcement.

“Dasha Down Under” —Daria Kasatkina receives a warm welcome after declaring being an Aussie

Kasatkina’s nationality switch has not only made headlines in the tennis fraternity but has also shaken up the WTA rankings landscape. Currently, the second-highest ranked female tennis player from Russia, behind world 6th seed Mirra Andreeva, Kasatkina’s move now positions her to become Australia’s new top seed. Until now, that spot belonged to 68th-ranked Kimberly Birrell. Her announcement was met with a wave of warmth and excitement from the Australian tennis community, which includes fellow Russian-born Aussie players Arina Rodionova and Daria Saville, both of whom made similar transitions in 2014 and 2015, and even former tennis ace Rennae Stubbs.

Right below Kasatkina’s post on IG, Tennis Australia’s official social media welcomed her with open arms, writing, “Welcome to the Aussie tennis family,” while the AO’s IG page chimed in with an enthusiastic, “Dasha Down Under. A warm welcome.” Even her compatriots joined the chorus: Daria Saville added, “new neighbour 🤍,” Arina Rodionova commented, “This is gonna be fun 🥰🥰 So many avocado toasts will be consumed between us 😂,” and former tennis great Rennae Stubbs threw in her cheerful message: “Omggggg i was right! Lol 😂 so happy to see this! WELCOME MATEEEE!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 🇦🇺,” The tennis world is ready to see Kasatkina thrive in green and gold.

On court, the new Aussie Kasatkina has had a mixed 2025 season so far, holding a 9-8 singles record. Her latest appearance ended in a second-round exit at the Miami Open against American Hailey Baptiste. As the clay season nears, fans are contemplating the possibility of Kasatkina claiming her next championship under the Australian banner, now that she has embraced the fresh colors. Are you backing her?