Imagine leaving everything familiar behind, including your name, to start a new life in a country that embraces you with open arms. That’s exactly what tennis star Daria Kasatkina—or should we say, Dasha—has done. But here’s where it gets controversial: as she trades her Russian roots for Australian citizenship, she’s not just changing her passport; she’s redefining what home means. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the flag she plays under, but the freedom she’s found, especially as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.**
Dasha, as she prefers to be called, recently made headlines by becoming a permanent Australian resident, a move driven by the harsh realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Russia. ‘Daria is my official name, but Dasha feels more like me,’ she explains, emphasizing the shift from formality to a more relaxed identity. This transition isn’t just symbolic; it’s deeply personal. Engaged to former elite figure skater Natalia Zabiiako (Natasha), Dasha is building a life where she can be herself without fear.
The past year has been a rollercoaster for the 28-year-old. Despite reaching the round of 16 at Roland Garros and Melbourne Park, her ranking dipped to its lowest in over five years. And this is the part most people miss: she pulled out of three major tournaments due to exhaustion, a decision that sparked debates about the mental and physical toll of professional sports. Yet, amidst the challenges, there’s optimism. ‘Becoming Australian has made me more chill,’ she admits, embracing the laid-back Aussie culture that starkly contrasts with her Russian upbringing.
Her new home’s attitude toward time, for instance, still amuses her. ‘If you’re late, you’re late, mate,’ she mimics with a smile. ‘It’s a different mindset, but I’m learning to love it.’ Fresh from her citizenship ceremony, Dasha is now gearing up for the Australian Open, where she’ll face rising Czech star Nikola Bartůňková in the first round. But here’s where it gets controversial: while she’s thrilled to play in front of a ‘home’ crowd, she’s also navigating the nerves that come with representing a new nation.
Her on-court style is as unique as her journey. Describing her game as ‘creative,’ she relies on strategy and agility to outmaneuver more powerful opponents. Yet, she remains humble. ‘I just want people to enjoy my matches,’ she says, deflecting praise with a shrug.
Behind the scenes, Dasha’s support system is expanding. Her coaching team now includes fitness guru Jona Segal, thanks to Tennis Australia’s backing. She’s also been welcomed into the WhatsApp group of Australia’s top female players, a space where victories are celebrated and support is unconditional. ‘It’s this team spirit,’ she notes, ‘where you’re happy for each other’s success.’ Boldly, she highlights: ‘In some circles, jealousy is the norm, but here, it’s about lifting each other up.’
Her YouTube channel, co-hosted with Natasha, offers a glimpse into the dynamics of Eastern European players on tour. While she’s close with former Russians like Maria Timofeeva and Kamilla Rakhimova, she also maintains ties with those still connected to Russia, such as Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Mirra Andreeva. And this is the part most people miss: despite cutting ties with Russia politically, Dasha speaks fondly of its people. ‘Russians are super responsible,’ she says, ‘but yes, they can be a bit grumpy.’
Her journey to the top hasn’t been without hurdles. After reaching a career-high ranking of No. 8 in 2022, the same year she came out and criticized the Ukraine invasion, she faced burnout in 2025. ‘I hit a wall,’ she admits. Yet, studying for Australia’s citizenship test became her outlet, a symbol of renewal. ‘It felt like preparing for a match,’ she says, ‘and acing it was my reward.’
As she embraces her new identity, Dasha is discovering the quirks of Australian life—from wombats and koalas to the perplexing platypus. ‘Plat-y-kus?’ she laughs, still learning the local lingo. While she has no immediate plans to relocate, she feels at home. ‘This is a place to live, to raise a family,’ she says, grateful for the support she’s received.
For now, her home is wherever Natasha is, often in hotel rooms across the globe. ‘Having her by my side gives me a sense of home,’ Dasha shares. And as she steps onto the court at Melbourne Park, she’s not just playing for herself, but for a country that’s embraced her fully. But here’s the question that lingers: Can a nation’s love for sports truly bridge cultural divides? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
