Why Danielle Collins reconsidered retirement after a season of personal and professional breakthroughs

Danielle Collins

At the start of 2024, Danielle Collins announced her intention to retire from professional tennis by the end of the season. Her decision was deeply personal, rooted in a desire to start a family and step away from the demanding travel schedule of the WTA Tour. Collins had long been open about her struggles with endometriosis and rheumatoid arthritis—conditions that not only affected her health but also complicated her fertility journey.

A career-best season changes the narrative

Despite her retirement plans, Collins delivered one of the strongest seasons of her career. She captured her first WTA 1000 title at the Miami Open and followed it up with another win in Charleston. Her consistent performances propelled her back into the top 10 rankings, and she earned a spot on the U.S. Olympic team. These achievements sparked renewed excitement and made her reconsider whether stepping away was the right move.

Health challenges reshape her timeline

Collins later revealed that her plans to start a family were taking longer than expected. After consulting with specialists, she realized that her journey with endometriosis and fertility would require more time and patience. Rather than pause her career indefinitely, she chose to continue competing while navigating these personal challenges. Tennis, she said, became a welcome distraction and a source of strength during an emotionally complex period.

The decision to keep playing into 2025

In October 2024, Collins confirmed she would extend her career into the 2025 season. She shared that the “DANIMAL story has not reached its conclusion,” signaling her readiness to embrace more matches and moments on court. Her announcement was met with support from fans and fellow players, many of whom admired her resilience and openness.

A new chapter with renewed purpose

Collins’ decision to keep playing is not just about chasing titles—it’s about reclaiming control over her journey. By continuing on tour, she’s choosing to balance ambition with vulnerability, showing that personal growth and professional excellence can coexist. Her story now serves as a powerful example of how athletes can adapt, evolve, and thrive even when life doesn’t go according to plan.

Collins in Wimbledon, ranking, and results in 2025

Danielle Rose Collins

16 - 12win/loss

Hard
6-5
Clay
8-5
Grass
2-2
31 year old
LWWLLWLWWL
2025 Highlights

Now the world no.54, the American has an overall 14-9 win-loss record in 2025. Danielle is currently competing in Wimbledon where she bested the world no.57 Maria Camila Osorio Serrano 6-3 6-2 and the world no.171 Veronika Erjavec 6-4 6-1.

Danielle Rose Collins will come up against the world no.4 Iga Swiatek in the 3rd round on Saturday at 4:30 pm on Centre Court. Their head to head is 7-2 for Swiatek.

The American won 4 titles in her career: 2 on hard courts and 2 on clay courts. (See the list of her titles)

Collins
Wimbledon
Collins's Record
Collins
Projected
Draw