Russia’s top player Daria Kasatkina says she feels ‘more free’ since publicly speaking about her sexuality and has received support from many within the sport.
The world No.12 came out as gay during an interview with Russian vlogger Vitya Kravchenko during an hour-long video which covered an array of topics and also featured Andrey Rublev. Kasatkina is one of the most high-profile athletes from her country to publicly come out. Russia has a ‘gay propaganda’ law which prohibits the “promotion of nontraditional sexual relations” to minors. In recent weeks a group of lawmakers have tabled a motion to expand the law. If it was approved, there would be a ban on public discussion of LGBTQ relationships in a positive or neutral light, and any LGBTQ content in cinemas.
“I don’t know how the social media filter works, but I’ve just heard very good things,” Kasatkina said during an interview with WTA Insider. “Not just from the west but also people from my country.
“I’m really happy about it. As I saw, it was not just a good thing for me, also it helped other people. That’s great and I feel great. I feel happy about it and about myself and that’s most important.”
Kasatkina, who reached the semi-finals of the French Open earlier this year, is currently in a relationship with former ice skater Natalia Zabiiako who was part of the Russian team that won silver at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. Zabiiako is at San Jose with Kasatkina watching her play.
“I feel more free and happy,” said Kasatkina. “I think I made the right step. With the situation in the world, all this stuff that is tough, when if not now? Let’s put everything into the same pool.”
Among those to have shown their support is former world No.1 Naomi Osaka who said players rally around her peer due to the possible ‘dangerous situation.’ Referring to the treatment of LGBT people in Kasatkina’s native Russia. Coco Gauff also stated that she believes there is no judgment on the Tour.
“I think in tennis, at least with the girls around, we’re all very supportive of each other no matter the background or identity,” Gauff said. “I don’t think there’s any judgment when it comes to that.
“I’m grateful that she felt comfortable enough sharing that part of her life. She didn’t have to do that. But I can only imagine how many people in her situation feel inspired by that.”
Historically there have been many LGBT role models in women’s tennis with the likes of Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, Amelie Mauresmo and others. However, it is the opposite on the men’s Tour and presently there are no openly gay players. Recently the ATP announced a new partnership with the You Can Play Project to form an LGBTQ+ educational partnership.
Kasatkina is the seventh seed at this week’s San Jose Open. After beating Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the first round, she dropped only four games during her 6-4, 6-0, win over Taylor Townsend on Wednesday.
