During the Olympic Games, the rivalry between Danielle Collins and Iga Świątek escalated following a quarterfinal match where Collins retired. Świątek reportedly said something to Collins at the net, which led to Collins feeling the need to voice her frustration. Collins explained later that she told Świątek she shouldn’t be dishonest about her injury.
The dynamics between the two grew more complex during the United Cup, where despite a pre-match handshake from Collins, her expression afterward went viral, prompting her to use that moment as her Instagram profile picture. Throughout the match, Collins endured boos from the crowd but seemed to thrive on the negativity, famously saying that the people who dislike her are essentially funding her lifestyle through ticket sales.
Collins’ tennis career has been a journey marked by perseverance and hardship. Coming from a middle-class background and not having significant sponsors, she built her career independently after completing her studies at the University of Virginia. Notable successes came later in her career, including her run to the semifinals at the 2019 Australian Open and WTA titles.
She initially announced her plans to retire at the end of 2024 to focus on starting a family, especially given her struggles with endometriosis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, circumstances changed, and she decided to continue competing despite her health challenges.
While Collins is seen by some as a controversial figure due to her outspoken nature and provocations, she has also become a relatable figure for many women battling similar health issues. Recently, she demonstrated a compassionate side by rescuing an injured dog named Crash, showcasing her commitment to animal welfare. This act of kindness was reflected in her choice of profile picture, marking a shift from the contentious moments on the court.
Collins is slated to face Świątek for the ninth time in their careers, with Collins having previously defeated the Polish star only once. The match is set to start at 1:00 PM at the WTA event in Rome.
This ongoing rivalry highlights not only the competitive spirit in tennis but also underscores the personal challenges athletes face off-court, resonating with fans and fostering a sense of community around shared experiences.