"Gotta ride out the storm" says Danielle Collins after battling past Mertens

Former Australian Open Danielle Collins advanced to the quarterfinals of the event after a win over Elise Mertens.

The match was played in extremely tough conditions with the Australian heat doing its thing but Collins was able to outlast Mertens in three sets. The American admitted that it was very tough to play but explained what kept her going:

"I think to do well in these events, you kind of have to ride out the storm. I think you have moments where you're playing some of your best tennis. Sometimes you lose your rhythm. Sometimes you're dealing with some little pestering aches and pains. Sometimes you're dealing with physical conditions, with the weather. There are so many different elements."

Up next she will face giant-slayer Alize Cornet who is playing her best grand slam event ever taking down several notable names en route to the quarterfinals. On that matchup, Collins said:

"I think she's an incredible player and person for our sport. I think her hard work and tenacity really comes out every time she plays and steps on the court. She's always someone that's very fun to watch, someone that's very pleasant to see on a day-to-day basis and passing in the locker room. I appreciate her a lot."