Russian tennis star Daria Kasatkina has bravely come out as gay in a video posted online. Speaking to Russian blogger Vitya Kravchenko, the world number 12 revealed she is in a relationship with a woman and that “living in the closet” was no longer possible. The 25-year-old also shared photos of herself with girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako, a Russian-Estonian figure skater, who now represents Canada. In the video, Kasatkina is visibly emotional as she discusses Russia’s homosexuality restrictions, the ongoing war in Ukraine and whether she will be allowed to return to her home country. Currently, Russian lawmakers are trying to ban the 'promotion’ of LGBTQ+ relationships and a law stopping gay pride marches has been in effect since 2013. “Seriously, if there is a choice, no one would choose being gay. Why make your life harder, especially in Russia? What’s the point?”, Kasatkina stresses in the clip. The tennis star also expressed concerns that she would never be able to hold Zabiiako’s hand in Russia but that she could no longer live a lie. “Living in the closet is impossible. It is too hard, it is pointless. Living in peace with yourself is the only thing that matters, and f**k everyone else.”

Why has Kasatkina come out now? 

Kasatkina explained that her reasoning for coming out stemmed from being inspired by Russian footballer Nadya Karpova, who did the same last month. 

"Not only did Nadya help herself by coming out and get this burden off her chest, she has also helped others,” she said.

“I believe it is important that influential people from sports, or any other sphere really, speak about it. It is important for young people who have a hard time with society and need support.”

Kasatkina

Kasatkina calls for end to war 

The Russian also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine and called for an end to the fighting.

Asked what she wanted most in life, Kasatkina replied: “For the war to end,” before labelling the conflict “a complete nightmare.” 

Kasatkina

Kasatkina hitting form 

Kasatkina has won the joint-fifth most matches on the WTA Tour this year with 27 and is the number one ranked Russian player in the world. 

She reached her first major semi-final at the French Open earlier this season, before losing to eventual champion Iga Swiatek. 

The Russian also reached the semi-finals of the Gippsland Trophy, the Sydney International and the Italian Open. 

In total, the 25-year-old has won four career titles to date.