Ajla Tomljanovic has extended a warm welcome to Daria Kasatkina following her decision to leave Russia and make Australia her new home. The Australian tennis star is excited about having Kasatkina as a compatriot.
On Saturday, the Russian-born player announced her new permanent residency status in Australia, confirming that she would compete for her adopted nation in the upcoming WTA 500 event in Charleston.
Tuesday marked the world No. 12’s first official day as an Australian resident as she gears up for the Charleston Open.
Daria Kasatkina celebrates her victory in the third round at the 2025 Australian Open. Robert Prange via Getty Images
With her WTA profile now reflecting her new allegiance, Kasatkina has risen to become Australia’s highest-ranked player, surpassing Kim Birrell (62), Maya Joint (81), Tomljanovic (87), and Olivia Gadecki (100).
In a media interaction, Tomljanovic admitted that she was taken aback by Kasatkina’s change of nationality. “It came out of nowhere for me, but I’m really happy about it,” she stated.
“I believe she’s an exceptional individual and athlete, and I’m eager for her to represent us in the Billie Jean King Cup and the Olympics,” Tomljanovic added. “She’s a fantastic asset, and her personality aligns perfectly with Australian values, so I can’t wait to see her thrive here.”
Notably, Tomljanovic also transitioned from representing Croatia to Australia in 2013.
Daria Kasatkina and Ajla Tomljanovic play a women’s double match together at the 2019 Wuhan Open. VCG/VCG via Getty Images
Tomljanovic, who has made Brisbane her home city, expressed confidence that Kasatkina will seamlessly integrate into the vibrant Australian lifestyle. “I’m just incredibly grateful, and I know she will be too,” Tomljanovic mentioned. “But most importantly, she should stay true to herself because she’s already brilliant as she is.”
“Her move likely stemmed from her desire for better opportunities, which she has undoubtedly found. Looking back, I firmly believe joining Australia was the best decision for me, and I’m confident she will share that sentiment,” Tomljanovic added.
Tomljanovic is also confident that Kasatkina’s personality will resonate well with Australians. “She brings intensity to the court and maintains a laid-back vibe,” she noted. “She’s a coffee lover, often checking out the best coffee spots whenever we travel to different cities.”
Recalling the Australian leg of the tour, Tomljanovic observed, “I could sense how much she enjoyed her time here, and I’m sure she’ll fit in well with our team.”
In her pre-tournament media briefing, Kasatkina shared how her close friend Daria Saville, who made a similar move to Australia in 2013, is thrilled about her joining the Australian fold. “Dasha [Saville] can’t stop chatting; it’s a bit overwhelming,” she said with a smile. “Ever since I made my announcement, she’s been on my case with phone calls and has been sending me listings for apartments and homes around her area in Melbourne.”
Daria Saville (née Gavrilova) and Daria Kasatkina feature in a women’s double match at Wimbledon in 2016. Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
“Dasha is beyond excited; it’s actually a bit intimidating,” joked Kasatkina.
Although a former semi-finalist at Roland-Garros, Kasatkina will not be eligible to represent Australia in certain international fixtures, such as the Billie Jean King Cup, due to rules preventing players from competing for more than one nation without citizenship.
Kasatkina’s first match representing Australia is scheduled for Thursday (AEDT), where she will face American Lauren Davis.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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