‘What have I got to lose?’ – Danielle Collins’ retirement mentality aptly described by former NFL pro as tennis season reaches its peak

Danielle Collins is having a year like no other! The American tennis player is playing the final season of her career and is leaving no stone unturned to achieve everything that has eluded her in the past. With fierce determination and unwavering focus, Collins is capturing the attention of the tennis community and beyond. Her recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular and showcase her skill, grit and tenacity. Fans and commentators alike are raving about her electrifying presence on the court. And now, former NFL player turned tennis fanatic Dustin Vos is the last to sing Collins’ praises.

Fox had an exclusive interaction with Tennis channel for their Inside In podcast. He discussed a wide range of topics, including his love for the sport and Collins’ impressive run in her final season. Speaking about the tennis star, Fox shared how his situation was similar to Collins’ during his final playing days.

During a conversation on the podcast, the 41-year-old said: “When you have one of those magical runs, you just ride the wave, like Danielle Collins.” To justify this, he took the example of his own career.In my career, you know, in my playing career, where I could actually decide when I was done.” And Collins absolutely does things on her own terms.

The 30-year-old tennis pro has won two crucial titles this season, one in Miami and the other in Charleston, and she is also on a 15-match winning streak. She also reached the semi-finals of the Italian Open. Her performance at the recently concluded Wimbledon was also exceptional, as she reached the fourth round, her best run at the tournament so far. Fox went on to add his admiration for Danimal.

“She does it on her terms, and that’s pretty cool to see. I think the pressure kind of goes away at that point, when you’re like, you know, what do I have to lose? I’ve dedicated my life to this, and the preparations there, and I’m just going to go out there and play.Collins himself has expressed similar sentiments.

After announcing her retirement in January this year, the former Australian Open finalist’s post-Miami Open comment was something her fans were thrilled about. Speaking after her win in Miami in March, she said: “I really think part of the reason I played so well and did well today was because I had that mentality of, I’m going to enjoy every minute of this. This is my last year, this is my last season, and these are some of my last events. I want to remember these moments.”

But even her retirement announcement is not without its problems and she believes this is because of her gender.

‘If I were a man…’ When Collins spoke openly about her problems

Collins announced her decision to retire from the sport in January, citing her desire to start a family sooner rather than later, largely because of a chronic inflammatory condition that affects her ability to conceive. But since making her decision, she has been asked whether she would reconsider. Collins replied the same:

“I find it so interesting because when I announced my retirement, I felt like everyone was congratulating me and being so excited for me.” She continued and added: “But on the other hand, I feel like I had to justify my decision a lot. I think if I were a man, I probably wouldn’t have to justify it as much.”

But despite the challenges, Danielle Collins has managed to build a fan base that spans the sporting arena. And what fans are now expecting is for ‘Danimal’ to roar again.