Togliatti-born Daria Kasatkina has always represented Russia on the WTA Tour and is currently the highest-ranked player from her country. However, a recent draw ceremony at the Abu Dhabi Open caused widespread confusion when the Spanish flag was mistakenly displayed next to her name, leading many to believe she had switched her citizenship.
The “news” of Kasatkina changing her citizenship to Spain came as a shock, but it was a plausible theory given her well-known ties to the country. The world No. 11 previously lived and trained in Barcelona, working with Spanish coaches and taking advantage of the country’s top-tier tennis facilities and favorable climate. Although she continues to train in Barcelona periodically, her current residence is in Dubai, and she has not been in Russia for several years.
Furthermore, Kasatkina has been vocal in her criticism of Russia’s LGBTQ+ laws and her opposition to the war in Ukraine. As soon as the Spanish flag appeared beside her name, social media was abuzz with speculation regarding a possible nationality switch.
Ultimately, the tournament clarified the situation, admitting the mistake and issuing an apology.
“We sincerely apologise for the error made by one of our suppliers during the live draw, whereby an incorrect nationality was…
