Tennis star gets engaged to girlfriend after switching allegiance from Russia
Daria Kasatkina is now engaged to Natalia Zabiiako. (Getty Images/Instagram/@ kasatkina)
Daria Kasatkina is now engaged to Natalia Zabiiako. (Getty Images/Instagram/@ kasatkina)
Russian-born tennis star Daria Kasatkina has got engaged to her girlfriend, having recently switched her allegiance to Australia because of her sexuality.
Kasatkina came out publicly as gay in 2022 and revealed that she was dating Russian former Olympic figure-skater Natalia Zabiiako.
Earlier this year, in the face Russia’s homophobic climate, world number 16 Kasatkina announced she would be representing Australia after the Canberra government granted her residency.
They couple took to Instagram to share their news, with the caption: “And just like that”, as Zabiiako showed off a cut diamond ring.
British number one Katie Boulter responded by writing: “Ahhh congrats,” while fellow Russian-Australian star Arina Rodionova commented: “I will be at the wedding regardless if you want it or not.”
‘I am thrilled to start this new chapter’
Kasatkina has previously said it was “not possible” for her to return to her homeland, and she now splits her time between Spain and Dubai.
Announcing her permanent residency in Australia, she said: “I will always have respect and fond appreciation for my roots but I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my career and my life under the Australian flag. Thank you all for your understanding and continued support.”
Earlier this week, Kasatkina went out in the first round at Queens, beaten by British number two Sonay Kartal 1-6, 6-3, 3-6. She reached the last 16 of this year’s French Open.
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