Russian-born tennis star Daria Kasatkina is poised to make a powerful return to the court at the Australian Open, with friends and fellow players predicting she will be warmly embraced by the local crowd. Kasatkina is preparing for her first Grand Slam appearance since switching her allegiance to Australia earlier this year.
From Russia to Australia: A New Chapter Begins
Kasatkina, a former world No.8, made the significant decision to represent Australia in March. This move came shortly after she reached the fourth round at Melbourne Park for the first time in her career. Following her declaration, she demonstrated strong form, advancing to the fourth round at Roland Garros and the third round at both Wimbledon and the US Open.
However, the pressures of the transition proved immense. In October, the 28-year-old announced she was ending her season early, citing the "emotional and mental stress" of changing countries, the difficulty of being separated from her family, and the relentless grind of the professional tennis tour.
"I’ve been far from fine for a long time and, truth be told, my results and performances show that," Kasatkina confessed on social media at the time. "Truth is, I’ve hit a wall and can’t continue. I need a break."
Renewed and Ready for a Home Grand Slam
Kasatkina vowed to come back "energised and ready to rock" in 2026. She will launch her comeback season at the Brisbane International, which starts on January 4, before heading to Melbourne for the Australian Open. Despite being a 2022 French Open semi-finalist and finishing four consecutive years in the top 10, her current ranking has slipped to 37th in the world.
This ranking means she is unlikely to be seeded for the Australian Open and currently sits behind world No.32 Maya Joint among Australian women. Nevertheless, her pedigree ensures she will be a major drawcard, likely featuring prominently on Rod Laver Arena.
Australian Players Rally Behind Their New Teammate
Fellow Australian player Storm Hunter, a long-time friend of Kasatkina, has full confidence in her ability to perform. Hunter emphasised that the local tennis community has already welcomed Kasatkina with open arms.
"It’ll definitely be a new thing for her," Hunter told AAP. "I don’t think she needs any tips from us. She’s played in a lot of high pressure moments herself. But I think the biggest thing is just showing her that she has our support."
Hunter revealed that Kasatkina is an active participant in a group chat with Australian female tennis players, which has helped her integrate. "She knows that she has the support of the players," Hunter added.
Hunter also believes the Australian public will quickly become fans. "The crowds will love her because she is such a very nice person, very open, honest, she wears her heart on her sleeve," she said, noting Kasatkina's popular YouTube channel helps people connect with her story.
Saville Confirms Kasatkina is Training and Excited
Another close friend, Daria Saville—also Russian-born and now an Australian player—has been in regular contact with Kasatkina during her break. Saville, who is pregnant and will miss the upcoming Open, provided a positive update on Kasatkina's mindset.
"She’s going well. She’s training now. She’s looking forward to the next season," Saville said.
Saville expects Kasatkina to thrive in the Australian environment, drawing parallels to the warm reception she received at the US Open. "We’re a group of girls, we’re really nice. We’re like, ‘you’re part of us, hello’. She’s really excited to come to Australia and enjoy the home advantage," Saville explained.
While Kasatkina is still ineligible to represent Australia in the Billie Jean King Cup, her focus is firmly on a successful and supported return to Grand Slam tennis in Melbourne.
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