Even though Daria Kasatkina was born in Russia, she is now an Australian citizen. This announcement represents a personal tipping point for Bird’s career as an athlete. Against the backdrop of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, homophobia and transphobia in Russia only exacerbates the trauma that LGBTQ people are experiencing. While looking for safety, Kasatkina discovered refuge in Australia and recently received approval to remain permanently. She is getting ready to race with the Aussie flag for the first time. This announcement comes right before the start of the annual Charleston Open.
Kasatkina has lived in Spain and Dubai in recent years. She will compete as a neutral athlete due to the geopolitical tensions resulting from Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. She hopes to see a more inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQI people in Australia. This desire became especially pronounced after she came out as gay in July 2022. She is now dating fellow figure skater Natalia Zabiiako.
Ranked 12th in the world, Kasatkina told us how grateful she was for this new chapter in her life. In fact, in her first match for Australia, she cruised past American Lauren Davis, 6-1, 6-1.
“It’s a really special moment for me to win the first match as an Australian player,” – Daria Kasatkina
The shift has not come without its bumps in the road. Kasatkina called her opening match as an Australian “stressful,” reminiscing on the emotional gravitas of the occasion.
“Going on court today as an Aussie this time was stressful, honestly,” – Daria Kasatkina
She knew that her decision to compete for Australia was more than a personal choice. It wasn’t just a desire, it was a necessity from the current climate in her native country. ILGA-Europe has called attention to the increasing dangers that LGBTQ people are confronted with in Russia. This alarming escalation sounds like the fray to lure Kasatkina into action.
“With everything going on in my previous country, I didn’t have much choice,” – Daria Kasatkina
Now as she prepares to spend more time based in Melbourne, Kasatkina explains why Australia has stolen her heart. What she described was an environment that was unbelievably welcoming, where she felt totally at home.
“For me, being openly gay, if I want to be myself, I have to make this step, and I did it.” – Daria Kasatkina
Kasatkina, taking a moment to reflect on her journey thus far. She said she’s been aware of the stress of her transition and media attention, but she takes pride in how she has managed the stress and transition.
Reflecting on her journey thus far, Kasatkina stated that while the week had been filled with stress due to her transition and public scrutiny, she is pleased with how she has managed the situation.
“Honestly, it feels different, I’m not going to lie. It’s emotional for me. I have to get used to it. But I’m really happy to start this new chapter of my life representing Australia on the big stage.” – Daria Kasatkina
Leave a Reply