Stosur on Kasatkina's Change of Nationality: "She's Coming Here to Set a New Benchmark for Australian Players"

World No. 12 Daria Kasatkina announced at the end of March her change of sporting nationality. Born in Russia and representing that country since the start of her career, the 27-year-old player will now compete under the Australian flag.

While some administrative formalities with the ITF must still be resolved before Kasatkina can represent her new country in the BJK Cup (noting that she has already represented Russia in this competition), Sam Stosur welcomes Daria Kasatkina’s arrival as Australia’s new WTA No. 1 with great enthusiasm.

"Daria Kasatkina is one of the most well-liked players on the tour—she’s always been very friendly. I always had excellent interactions with her when I was still playing. I think she’s a wonderful person, and she’ll be a great asset to the country.

She’s coming here to set a new benchmark for Australian players. She’ll be in Melbourne—that will be her new base when she returns during the off-season. These preparations for the Australian summer are something they can all use and benefit from—it’s a real advantage.

For now, Daria is only a permanent resident, and the WTA has allowed her to play under the Australian flag, which is obviously a good thing, but there are still a few details to sort out before she can participate in the BJK Cup.

Time has passed, and steps need to be taken for her to become a citizen, obtain her passport, and potentially play for the BJK Cup team in the future," assured the former world No. 4 in an Australian Open podcast.