MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – After a challenging 2025 season, Russian-born, Australian citizen Daria Kasatkina is eager to make her mark in the 2026 Australian Open. Having recently sworn her allegiance to Australia, Kasatkina talked openly about her mental renewal, her newfound pride in her adopted homeland, and her determination to leave her 2025 struggles behind.

“Last year was a very strange season for me,” Kasatkina admitted. “I was performing better in the Grand Slams, which was usually the opposite. I looked mentally exhausted in smaller tournaments. But now, I’m finally in a position where I can focus on tennis and enjoy it.”

“Being Australian means acceptance,” Kasatkina said. “The whole process has been incredible, seeing the support from people and other citizens. It’s a responsibility, but it’s what I was looking for.”

“I can’t wait to wear the green and gold for the first time. It’s a special moment for me.”

“The pressure I feel is positive,” Kasatkina said. “I’m super proud to play in front of such a big crowd at home. I’ll have to control my nerves, though, as I’ve never been in this situation before.”

Kasatkina also discussed the support hate she receives on social media. “All I can do is close my comments section,” she said. “Unfortunately, I know it will continue to happen. But at the end of the day, we’re athletes in the public domain, so anyone can comment on us.”

Kasatkina’s ultimate goal is to build on her best Australian Open result from last year, reaching the second week. But for now, she’s focused on regaining her confidence and mental strength. “I will go game by game, tournament by tournament, working hard and trying to regain my place,” she said.