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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

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  Debate

Debate

Is Danielle Collins the unsung hero of women's tennis, inspiring the next generation like Emma Navarro?

“I’m going to cheer you on every step of the way. And if you ever need anything, I am here!”- Caroline Wozniacki. Serena Williams‘ and Wozniacki’s friendship has pleased tennis fans for decades. However, by adding a breath of fresh air to the tennis world, the newest BFFs in town are grabbing headlines! After all, Emma Navarro and Danielle Collins are discovering that friendship is the greatest victory of all. The former’s deep emotional “connection” with Collins redefines the rules of friendship and competition! Let’s hear it from Emma herself!

After winning the Round of 16 match at Wimbledon, Emma Navarro sat down for a post-match conference. In the interview, when asked about whether Navarro would watch Collins’ match live, the 23-year-old’s enthusiasm to watch the Miami Open champion’s match was palpable. “I would love to go to Danielle’s match, I haven’t looked at the schedule. I am not sure what time it is but yeah if it works out, I would love to go.” Navarro and Collins, who first met each other at a Charleston team event during the global pandemic, have become pretty good friends thereafter.

As a result, both frequently vocalize their admiration for each other on different occasions. Be it sharing funny anecdotes or praising each other’s performances, Emma Navarro and Danielle Collins are two peas in a pod! However, Navarro’s respect for Collins extends beyond just friendship. “She is definitely a role model of mine. We are probably polar opposites on the court just in terms of how we express ourselves. But what I think is so cool about Danielle is how she does not care what anybody thinks of her. And she is going to be herself no matter what.”

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She also expressed how Collins’ fearlessness and willingness to be her authentic self, even in the face of criticism, inspire her, describing it as a “cool attitude.” The former World No. 17’s funny anecdote of carb-loading together before their respective matches and texting each other before and after a match further adds a layer of comfort and camaraderie that both share!

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“So it’s pretty cool to have somebody else out on tour that you have that connection with and feel like you are in each other’s corner no matter what,” Navarro added. But wait! The respect is mutual. Earlier, Danielle shared her “love,” for Emma Navarro too!

Collins expresses how Emma Navarro “brings so much joy to” her life

What’s your perspective on:

Is Danielle Collins the unsung hero of women's tennis, inspiring the next generation like Emma Navarro?

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Collins and Navarro have not only shown their partnership off the court but also during a doubles match with each other! Last year, the two American tennis players displayed their amazing bond and stunned fans at the Roland Garros. However, at the time, Navarro ranked at No. 75 and has since worked her way up the rankings through her prowess in the sport. 

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Speaking about this, Collins, proud of her friend, said, “Just watching her go from being a really high-level junior and … seeing how she’s evolved as a player and person during that time has been incredible. And now seeing her do so well on tour and dominate, I mean, it just brings so much joy to my life watching Emma kick ass. I love this girl.”

Emma and Danielle might be “polar opposites” on the ground, but their deep “connection” off the court is something that we are all waiting to see more of!

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