COLLINS POWERS TO MIAMI TITLE IN POTENTIAL FINAL SEASON

Written by: Floyd Nkanyane

In what could be her farewell campaign, Danielle Collins is going out in style. The 30-year-old American produced a masterful performance to capture the biggest title of her career, defeating Elena Rybakina 7-5, 6-3 to win the Miami Open.

Collins had announced earlier this year that 2024 would likely be her final season on tour. Rather than being weighed down by the decision, the former Australian Open finalist has embraced it, playing fearlessly with a newfound freedom.

That mindset was on full display over the past two weeks in Miami. After a shaky opening round, Collins caught fire, dropping just one set the rest of the way. Her blistering ground-strokes, especially her two-handed backhand, consistently overpowered opponents.

In the final against the big-serving Rybakina, Collins dictated play from the baseline. While the fourth seed tried to turn the tide, Collins maintained control through clutch serving and returns. She broke at 5-5 in the first set, then carried that momentum into the second to seal the biggest triumph of her career.

The victory vaults Collins back in the Top 25 at a career-high No. 22 in the rankings. More importantly, it validates her decision to finish her career on her own terms, leaving nothing in the tank.

With the grand slams looming, the rest of the tour has been put on notice – an inspired Collins is showing no signs of slowing down in her last dance.