Danielle Collins is having the season of her career; however, that is not reflected in her ranking. Prior to 2021, the American had never won a singles title on the WTA Tour. Like so many athletes, Collins has had her fair share of injury and surgery.  Perhaps her recent injury opened her eyes to just how fragile or tenuous the career of an athlete can be. Maybe she simply connected all the dots this season.

Danielle Collins Wins First Title

In July of this season, coming back from recent surgery, Collins won her first title in Italy. Surprisingly, her first title was on clay, and she defeated two seeds en route to the title. However, the caliber of the draw was not that high; therefore, how would her game translate at a bigger tournament. Winning that first title relieved a significant amount of stress and the American showed that. Collins backed up her first title by capturing her second title at her next event. This time, it was a 500 tournament, and the caliber of players was much higher. The drawback of going on a tear however is that fatigue eventually plays a role. Unfortunately for Collins she lost in the round of sixteen of the National Bank Open, which was a 1000 event.

The Irony Of The Ranking System

Despite having the best year of her career, her ranking is not at her highest. Surprisingly, she did not do well at the US Open either; however, she seems to have recharged her batteries. Serving to go up 6-2, 5-2, Collins could not find a first serve. Luckily for the American, Elise Mertens was injured and struggling with her serve and movement; thus, Collins got the 6-2, 6-4 victory in the end. Will she win her third title of the season in Chicago? There is still some sturdy opponents left in the draw, and Collins will have to bring her “A” game if she wants this title.

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