A tale of roars and whispers: Collins's astonishing run before retirement

Tennis star Danielle Collins may have announced her decision to retire at the end of the 2024 season, but that hasn't prevented the American from playing her best tennis this year.

Earlier this year, Collins confirmed that she would be retiring from tennis at the end of this year. However, this seems to have sparked something in the 32-year old, who has experienced a resurgence of sorts over the last few months. The former Australian Open finalist won the Miami Open in March, before clinching the title in Charleston a week later.

Her impressive form has seen her rise in rankings, from World No.63 in mid-February to her current ranking of World No.15. Collins is currently competing at the Rome Open, where she stormed into the quarterfinals after overpowering Irina Begu in a clinical round of 16 encounter.

The WTA veteran is looking to jump into the top 10 rankings, as her latest win in Rome has seen her rise to No.12 in the WTA Live rankings. She face three-time Grand Slam champion Victoria Azarenka in the quarterfinals. Another victory would see her return to the top 10 a reality, as her previous career high was World No.7 in July 2022.

“I’m so glad that I have been able to figure out some of the physical things I have needed to do to peak at the right time and to feel like I’m ready to go," said Collins.
"At the end of the day, this is my personal choice," she added when asked if she would re-consider retirement. This is so much more than just tennis and my career. I’m enjoying my career. I’m having a lot of fun. I love coming out here and competing, but this is a really big life decision and that should be pretty understandable."