(VIDEO) Danielle Collins riles up Australian Open crowd, blows kisses and puts her hands to her ears after Destanee Aiava win
WTA
Danielle Collins was peak Danielle Collins as she took down Destanee Aiava in three sets at the 2025 Australian Open on Thursday as she riled up the crowd after the win and revelled in the booing.
Collins took down the home hope who came through qualifying including beating Eva Lys who has herself gone on to make Australian Open folklore with her run. But it is the end of the road for Aiava who stunned with her retro dress choices but couldn't vanquish the former finalist.
Never one to be riled up by home players or the big occasion, Collins took it in her stride blowing kisses to the stands after winning sets and at the end as the Australian Open X account wrote she went full Hulk Hogan mode.
She put her hands to her ears in the gesture which is associated with the wrestler and blew kisses to the crowd as she soaked up the boos.
Her post match interview was as iconic as she riled up the crowd even more. “During the match I was like, while I’m out here I might as well take that big fat paycheck," said Collins.
"Coco (Vandeweghe) and I we love a good five star vacation so part of that cheque is going to go to part of that so thanks for coming out here and supporting us tonight."
"Madi (Keys) and I go back to ten years old being pen pals, obviously have known her for a great portion of my life so looking forward to playing a great match."
Little bit of prime "Hollywood" Hulk Hogan about Danielle Collins post match!#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/nyusDgt3PP
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2025
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