In a remarkable display of tennis skills, Danielle Collins emerged triumphant at the Miami Open, securing the title by defeating Elena Rybakina. Despite her retirement decision at the end of this season, the American demonstrated her strength as a competitor throughout the competition with tenacity and accuracy. The Grand Slam champion recently opened up about how the American tennis player turned out to be a tough and aggressive competitor, against whom she had to push herself forward.

In a post-match press conference, Rybakina revealed how Collins left no moment for the opponent to react or even push herself against her. As she felt, Collins was physically “much fresher” than her.

Elena Rybakina reveals the hardships of competing with Collins “who is playing so well” 

As Elena Rybakina stated, “Maybe I should have maybe just risked a little bit more when I had these breakpoints, but again, the conditions are tough. The ball, especially if it’s not new, is not going that well. Also the percentage of my first serve was not the best today. So overall, I think it was just tough to compete against someone who is playing so well these two weeks. I think physically she was much fresher than me.” 

Considering Rybakina’s comment, it won’t be wrong to say that the physical strength American brought to the court was something, that was lacking in her opponent. To explain Collins’ playstyle, Rybakina further said, “Well, we played before a couple of times, and it was always tough matches. She’s playing very aggressive. I think just these first few shots of the point, you need to be very reactive.”

Further, as the former 7th-ranked tennis player, won the biggest title of her career, she also opened up about winning her first WTA 1000 title and playing against Rybakina.

“This whole week has been tough” – Collins’ path toward the trophy was not easy in the Miami Open

During the on-court interview, the American tennis player revealed how the victory means a lot more to her. She said, “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.” 

On the other hand, she also revealed her emotions regarding how the tournament went, highlighted that she was glad to share the final stage with Rybakina, and praised her. She added, “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.” However, her retirement thoughts still remain the same, even after lifting the title and rising up in the WTA rankings.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Collins’ amazing Miami Open victory? Do let us know in the comment section below.

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