Danielle Collins reflected on the mental challenges that tennis players face after advancing to the Miami Open semi-final with a straight sets victory over Caroline Garcia. Despite facing tough competition, Collins highlighted the importance of detachment and resilience in dealing with the highs and lows of the sport. She emphasized the need to enjoy the journey and not get caught up in the day-to-day struggles that players often face on the tour.
Having reached the last four of the Miami Open for the second time, Collins will now await the outcome of the match between Ekaterina Alexandrova and Jessica Pegula for a spot in the final. The 30-year-old, who recently announced her retirement from tennis at the end of the season, has shown great determination and adaptability in her comeback from injury-hit years. Despite a dip in her world rankings, Collins delivered a flawless performance against the 23rd seeded Garcia, showcasing her skills and mental strength on the court.
The match against Garcia was a closely contested affair in the first set, with both players struggling to break each other’s serve. However, Collins managed to seize the crucial break at 4-3 and eventually closed out the set in her favor. Garcia’s physical struggles, including a medical timeout for her right shoulder, did not deter Collins, as she continued to dominate the second set. With a break in hand, Collins secured another break, leading to a comfortable 5-2 advantage. She wrapped up the match with a love hold, displaying her attacking game and determination to secure victory.
Reflecting on her mental resilience and ability to navigate the challenges of professional tennis, Collins emphasized the need to balance enjoyment and detachment from the roller coaster of results that players face each week on the tour. She acknowledged the tough nature of the sport, where losses are more frequent than wins, even for the top players. Collins credited her focus on having fun, staying present, and not getting consumed by day-to-day struggles as key factors in her mental strength and ability to overcome setbacks.
Collins’s journey in the Miami Open has showcased her determination and skill as she gears up for a potential spot in the final. Her measured approach and focus on enjoying the process have allowed her to succeed despite setbacks and challenges. As she prepares to face tough opponents in the later stages of the tournament, Collins will rely on her mental resilience and ability to stay composed under pressure. With her retirement looming at the end of the season, Collins’s performances in Miami serve as a testament to her passion for the sport and her ability to overcome obstacles with grace and determination.
