American tennis star Danielle Collins has secured a memorable victory at the Miami Open, defeating Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina 7-5, 6-3 in the final on Saturday. The win marks Collins’ first WTA 1000 title and comes in her farewell season, adding a poignant touch to her triumphant performance on home soil.
The 30-year-old Collins, who announced in January her intention to retire from professional tennis this year, showcased determination and skill throughout the tournament. Her victory over the fourth-seeded Rybakina highlights a career milestone achieved through perseverance and hard work.
“This is my first WTA 1000 title, and I worked so hard. It has taken me a bit longer than a lot of the other players,” Collins expressed with emotion after the match. “This whole week has been tough. I have played against some of the best players in the world, including being out here and sharing the court with Elena in the final.”
Collins’ journey to the title was marked by challenging matches against top competitors, reflecting her resilience and passion for the sport. Her farewell season is shaping up to be a celebration of her contributions to tennis and an inspiration to fans worldwide.
“Thank you to the fans. I’ve played a lot of tennis and in a few finals, but nothing compares close to this,” she added, acknowledging the support she received throughout the tournament.
As Collins continues her final season, her victory at the Miami Open stands as a testament to her dedication and love for the game. Tennis enthusiasts and supporters will undoubtedly follow her remaining matches with great interest, celebrating a remarkable athlete’s concluding chapter.
Reference(s):
Collins tops Rybakina to claim Miami title in farewell season
cgtn.com
