Only days after Kamilla Rakhimova decided to leave the Russian flag behind, another high-profile name has followed. World no. 51 Anastasia Potapova is officially switching her nationality and will represent Austria starting in 2026.
Thus, she marks the latest departure from Russian tennis and sport in general during a turbulent period. Potapova has been based in Vienna for some time, developing deep ties to the famous city and embracing it as her new home.
Anastasia competed in the Sankt Peterburg exhibition last week. However, her decision to represent Austria came much earlier, with the process now signed and completed.
With her citizenship now approved, she is ready for a new chapter - both culturally and professionally. Potapova's move also comes at a moment when the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are slowly entering the players' long-term plans.
The reaction in Russia was noticeably cold. Former world no. 1 and national tennis icon Yevgeny Kafelnikov made it clear that Anastasia's departure would not be considered a loss for the country or Russian tennis.
The 1996 Roland Garros winner downplayed her impact and showed no sign of regret as another player walked away. His stance reflects a growing disconnect between Russian tennis authorities and players seeking stability, independence and clearer pathways toward Los Angeles.
With two nationality changes coming in rapid succession, and likely more to come, the shift could signal a broader trend as athletes evaluate their futures amid ongoing political complications.
Potapova starts a new chapter as the top-ranked Austrian player, hoping for a solid ride for her new country.
"I'm not happy to comment on this news. Should I give an opinion on this matter? I do not need to. She changed it, and that's it. What should I do now? Should I cry? Was she a strong athlete?
What did she win for Russia in her life? If you do not tell me, I will not either. So good riddance," Yevgeny Kafelnikov said.
