MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Russian-born tennis player Daria Kasatkina says she is switching allegiances to Australia after her application for permanent residency was accepted by the Australian government.
The 27-year-old Kasatkina was a French Open semifinalist in 2022 and is currently ranked 12th. The eight-time WTA singles champion's best career ranking was eighth.
Kasatkina has been playing on the tour as a neutral athlete after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from competing under their own flags following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In an Instagram post Friday, Kasatkina said she was pleased to have gained permanent residency in Australia. Tennis Australia later confirmed that she was now an Australian citizen and would represent Australia.
"I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian government," Kasatkina said. "Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home.