In a moment that was both nerve-wracking and thrilling, world No 12 Daria Kasatkina debuted as an Australian tennis player on Wednesday, cruising past American Lauren Davis 6-1, 6-1 at the Charleston Open. Her dominant performance came just one week after officially changing her tennis nationality from Russia.
Kasatkina admitted feeling significant pressure when the court announcer introduced her as an Australian athlete for the first time, an occasion she described as “stressful”. But any anxieties quickly dissipated as she delivered a clinical and confident performance on her favored clay surface.
“A new stage for me. So going on court today as an Aussie, this time was stressful, honestly,” Kasatkina said. “I just couldn’t keep my smile from breaking through. It’s a really special moment for me to win a first match as an Australian player. I’m just really happy and couldn’t believe one day something like that would happen to me.”
Kasatkina’s move: a personal and professional shift
Kasatkina’s decision to switch allegiance was largely influenced by her outspoken opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and her openness about her sexuality, both sensitive issues in her native country. Her public stance left her feeling she had no option but to leave Russia so she could openly “be myself” without fear or restraint.
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“This week was a bit stressful, with all the changes and all the feedback,” she explained post-match. “When the tennis player steps on court, all the stress she’s living through explodes. I’m really happy how I handled that situation today because it was not easy, honestly.”
Dominant display against Davis
Despite her nerves, Kasatkina quickly showcased why she is the highest-ranked Australian female player since Ash Barty’s retirement. She surged to a 5-0 lead in the opening set, losing only nine points in the process. Davis briefly challenged in the second set, capitalizing on Kasatkina’s three consecutive double faults to claim a break. Nevertheless, Kasatkina’s skill and composure ensured she remained comfortably ahead.
Kasatkina’s next challenge will be a last-16 encounter with either 17th seed Belinda Bencic or former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin.
Embracing Australian life and culture
Reflecting on her decision to represent Australia, Kasatkina spoke warmly about her adopted homeland. “Australia’s a great place. It’s a bit far, not going to lie, but it’s a great place, very welcoming,” she shared.
“The people there are just different, so nice. Everyone is treated the same. It’s just harmony there. You feel like nobody’s judging anybody, and you can be yourself.”
Kasatkina’s debut not only marks a new chapter in her professional career but also signals a promising future for Australian women’s tennis on the global stage.
