US Tennis Star Danielle Collins Delays Retirement and Plans WTA Tour Return in 2025
In a surprising twist, American tennis star Danielle Collins, currently ranked World No. 9, has announced that she will be postponing her retirement and making a return to the WTA Tour in 2025. The news comes after Collins initially revealed her plans to retire at the end of the 2024 season due to ongoing health issues and her desire to focus on starting a family. However, her recent update has sparked excitement among tennis fans as she confirmed that her journey on the court isn’t over yet.
Initial Retirement Announcement
Collins had previously announced in January 2024 that she would be stepping away from professional tennis. The 30-year-old athlete had been battling several health challenges, including rheumatoid arthritis and endometriosis, which impacted her performance and overall well-being. Her decision to retire also stemmed from a personal goal: to begin a family, a dream she has been vocal about.
However, as time progressed, Collins faced unexpected hurdles in her plans, leading her to reevaluate her retirement decision. In a candid Instagram post, she shared her ongoing struggle with endometriosis and fertility, which has become a central focus of her life.
The Health Struggles Continue
Collins opened up about her ongoing health issues, noting that while she was excited to move on to the next phase of her life, things did not go as smoothly as she had hoped. “In addition to managing some lingering health challenges the past few months, I’ve recently been seeing a handful of specialists to better understand what my best path forward is to achieve my ultimate dream, starting a family,” she explained on social media.
Her battle with endometriosis, a painful condition that affects many women, has significantly impacted her plans. However, Collins expressed confidence in the medical team working with her. She emphasized that while the journey to motherhood might take longer than anticipated, she remains hopeful and determined.
The DANIMAL Story Continues
Despite her initial plans to retire, Collins announced that her time on the tennis court is far from over. “The DANIMAL story has not reached its conclusion. I will be back on tour in 2025,” she stated, referencing her nickname. Collins expressed optimism about continuing her tennis career, at least until she gains more clarity on her fertility journey.
The 30-year-old star also hinted that fans can look forward to more thrilling matches in the near future. “While there are no guarantees in life, I hope to build on my 2024 momentum and keep playing until there is more certainty around my personal fertility journey. The only guarantee for now will be some more epic matches.”
A Career Resurgence in 2024
Since announcing her retirement earlier this year, Collins has played some of the best tennis of her career. Her performance throughout 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. Following a second-round exit at the Australian Open, where she lost to World No. 1 Iga Świątek, Collins bounced back in spectacular fashion.
In late March and early April, she claimed her first WTA 1000 title at the Miami Open and followed it up with a victory at the Charleston Open. These wins propelled her back into the top 10, an impressive comeback after she had dropped as low as No. 71 in February 2024.
Despite these successes, Collins faced some setbacks in recent months. She lost in the opening round of three tournaments after her quarterfinal loss at the Paris Olympics. Her most notable defeat came at the US Open, where she suffered a surprise first-round loss to fellow American Caroline Dolehide. Collins humorously downplayed her quick exit from the court, referencing Ben Stiller’s character in Meet the Parents as a way to deflect attention from the farewell ceremony organizers had planned for her.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Collins last competed at the Guadalajara Open in September 2024, but fans won’t have to wait too long to see her in action again. She has been named as part of the USA’s United Cup team, set to begin on December 27, 2024. While her focus remains on her long-term goals of starting a family, Collins is determined to continue her tennis career until the right moment comes.
As Collins looks ahead to her return to the WTA Tour in 2025, fans are eagerly anticipating her comeback. With a strong 2024 season under her belt and an undying passion for the sport, Danielle Collins’ story is far from over. Expect more epic matches and unforgettable moments from one of tennis’ fiercest competitors.
