As the sun sets on her professional tennis career, Danielle Collins is defying the norm and crafting her own fairy tale ending. Unlike many of her counterparts who struggle to maintain their form as they age, Collins, at the age of 30, is enjoying a remarkably successful farewell season on the court. The world No. 10 made a bold announcement at the Australian Open earlier this year, declaring that this season would be her last on the tour. Despite never advancing past the Round of 16 at the U.S. Open, Collins is determined to make her mark in Flushing Meadows this year.
Collins‘ journey to the upper echelons of tennis has been anything but conventional. Hailing from St. Petersburg, Florida, she grew up in a modest household, lacking the financial resources typically associated with success in the sport. However, Collins‘ tenacity and talent shone through as she excelled in college tennis, winning two NCAA singles titles at the University of Virginia before turning professional in 2016. This unconventional path has only added to the allure of her story, setting her apart from the typical prodigies groomed in elite tennis academies.
On the court, Collins is known for her ruthless power-baseline game and her fiery competitive spirit. She eschews the typical diplomatic niceties often seen in tennis, opting instead for blunt and at times confrontational interactions with opponents and fans. This unapologetic approach has garnered both admiration and criticism, but it undeniably sets her apart as a unique and authentic presence in the sport.
Off the court, Collins has been equally candid about her decision to retire at the peak of her career. Despite her impressive 2024 season, which includes victories at the Miami Open and Charleston, Collins has been plagued by health issues, including rheumatoid arthritis and endometriosis. These challenges have led her to prioritize her long-term well-being and future aspirations, including her dream of starting a family.
As Collins embarks on her final major tournament at the U.S. Open, she carries with her the support of fans, peers, and even celebrities like Matthew McConaughey, who have recognized the significance of her journey. With the crowd cheering her on and a genuine chance at making a deep run in the tournament, Collins stands on the brink of a historic and dignified conclusion to her remarkable career. In a sport where fairy tale endings are rare, Danielle Collins is proving that sometimes, dreams do come true, even on the tennis court.