Russian tennis ace Daria Kasatkina has announced that she will now be representing Australia in her professional tennis career after receiving permanent residency from the government. The world No. 12 was born in Tolyatti and has represented Russia since turning professional in 2014.

Two years ago, Kasatkina revealed that she was not living in Russia and couldn't return to her home country, claiming it was unsafe for her "as a gay person who opposes the war". The eight-time title winner has since lived in Spain and Dubai, but she will now be calling Australia her home.

Kasatkina announced the sudden news in a statement on social media on Friday night. "I am delighted to let you all know that my application for permanent residency has been accepted by the Australian Government," the 27-year-old wrote.

"Australia is a place I love, is incredibly welcoming and a place where I feel totally at home. I love being in Melbourne and look forward to making my home there.

"As part of this, I am proud to announce that I will be representing my new homeland, Australia, in my professional tennis career from this point onwards.

"Obviously, there are parts of this decision that have not been easy. I want to express my thanks and gratitude to my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout my tennis journey to date.

"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."

Russian tennis players have been playing as neutral athletes since the war in Ukraine broke out three years ago. Russian and Belarusian players were also banned from Wimbledon in 2022.

Kasatkina was one of the few Russian players who staunchly spoke out against her birth country's actions in the war. The world No. 12 previously led the Russian Tennis Federation team to Billie Jean King Cup glory in 2021. But she previously revealed that she was unable to return to Russia after condemning their actions and coming out as gay.

"It’s unsafe for me now, with the regime we have. As a gay person who opposes the war, it’s not possible to go back. But I don’t regret it even one per cent," she told the Sunday Times in 2023.

"When the war started and everything turned to hell, I felt very overwhelmed and I just decided, ‘F*** it all.’ I couldn’t hide any more. I wanted to say my position on the war and my [sexuality], which was tough, coming from a country where being gay is not accepted, but it felt like I had a backpack of stones on my shoulders and I just had to throw it off.

"Afterwards, I faced a few consequences, but the only thing that worried me was my parents, and they were fine. They are proud of me."

Australia currently does not have a player inside the world's top 50 in the WTA rankings - but that is now set to change. World No. 68 Kimberly Birrell is the nation's highest-ranked player.

By choosing to represent Australia, Kasatkina will automatically become the country's No. 1 player.