Former Australian Open semi-finalist Danielle Collins returned to action at the French Open (Roland Garros) after undergoing surgery to treat her endometriosis.
A long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body, the symptoms include back pain and the ability to get pregnant.
Collins has had the condition since 2016 and speaking after victory over Xiyu Wang on Sunday, the American was relieved to be rid of previous pain which was holding her back.
“Since surgery I’ve just felt so much better, especially with my back pain. Like I’m not having any type of sciatic nerve pain, which I was dealing with for a couple of years,” said Collins post match.
“I always thought it was more joint related. I consulted with my doctors and kind of had some misdiagnoses along the way. And so now I’m just kind of relieved to just be feeling good consistently.”
“It’s been a real weight that’s been lifted off my shoulders since having the surgery because I kind of got used to it (the pain) and kind of thought that it was normal to be dealing with. I didn’t realize that I would feel this much better after surgery, so I’m really relieved."
Next up for Collins will be the Ukrainian qualifier Anhelina Kalinina in the second round who took out Angelique Kerber earlier today. A potential third round clash with Serena Williams could await.
Danielle Collins says she’s been shocked by how much better she has felt physically after undergoing surgery for endometriosis. Hopes to bring awareness to the disorder. "I think just being able to talk about it with other women is empowering.” #RG21
