Daria Kasatkina, a renowned tennis player, is embracing a new chapter in her life as she transitions to Australian citizenship. In an exclusive interview, she shares her thoughts on the cultural differences between her homeland and Australia, her feelings about playing in a 'home slam', and her experiences as a new Australian. But here's where it gets controversial... Daria Kasatkina wants Australia to call her something else. "I think 'Dasha' is better," she says. "Daria is more like an official name which is written in my passport, so I prefer Dasha because it's just less... formal." This change in name reflects her new identity as an Australian, and she's embracing the more relaxed, laid-back persona that comes with it. And this is the part most people miss... Despite feeling compelled to cut ties with Russia, Daria Kasatkina speaks with fondness about some aspects of her homeland, where she still has family. "People with 'Russian mentality' are super responsible, it's like, you can really rely on this person, 'this person will do the job' - this is one of the good parts," she says. "Then, you know, Russians can be a bit grumpy, like with this 'stone face' and stuff. But honestly there are many good Russians in the world, and unfortunately now it doesn't look like that but, I mean, it is. Honestly, it is." Daria Kasatkina's journey to Australian citizenship has been a challenging one, but she's grateful for the support she's received along the way. Her new passport is waiting for her at the post office, and she's excited to embrace all that Australia has to offer. So, what's next for Daria Kasatkina? She's ready to take on the tennis world as an Australian, and she's eager to see what the future holds for her. Will she stay in Australia or return to her homeland? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: Daria Kasatkina is a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court, and she's ready to take on the world.
