‘Fastest Ball I Ever Played’ – How American Danielle Collins Overwhelmed Iga Swiatek at the 2022 Australian Open

It was the 2022 Australian Open. Achieving her best result at the tournament, Iga Swiatek was flying high and was due to face Danielle Collins in the semifinals. Although she was largely hailed as the favorite to win, Swiatek was shocked by her American opponent, who won that match easily in straight sets. As the two go head-to-head again at the 2024 Australian Open, memories of that encounter have resurfaced.

It was thrilling for fans to witness Collins producing her best to prevail over the then seventh-seeded Swiatek in straight sets 6-4, 6-1. Although the American lost the final against Aussie Ashleigh Barty, her resilience is still remembered. Clearly, Iga Swiatek knew it too.

When Iga Swiatek was all praises for Danielle Collins

During the post-match interview that year, Iga Swiatek was asked to analyze her defeat against Danielle Collins at the Australian Open. Even in the face of defeat, the World No. 1 was all for giving respect where it was due and was in awe of her opponent.

As reported by Australian Open, she said, “Today’s result, for sure I’m not happy with it, but I know that Danielle played amazing tennis. If I would have more chances to just play a rally with her, it would be much easier… I tried to find solutions, but … it’s kind of hard to stop an opponent when they are playing like that.”

Further, she went on to add, “I was prepared for her playing aggressive game, but I think that was the fastest ball I have ever played against in a match.” Collins’ backhand was significantly harder against Swiatek- at an average of 119km/h which is much higher from her tournament average of 114km/h.

While it was a shock defeat for Swiatek, it was one of the greatest career victories for Collins. She soon became a trending topic everywhere after her wonderful performance. Collins had worked hard for that result and it showed on the court. It remained Collins’ first and only Grand Slam final appearance. She hasn’t reached the major final since then.

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When Collins reminisced the good old days

During an interview following her win over Swiatek, Danielle Collins revealed that it took her years of training to reach where she is today. As a result, she went in the past to dictate some interesting cases of her efforts.

Collins said, “It’s been such a journey and it doesn’t happen overnight. It’s so many years of hard work and hours at an early age on court… All the early mornings my dad would get up with me and practice before school. It’s incredible.”

Collins and Swiatek will square off again in the second round of the 2024 Australian Open. The much-anticipated match takes place tomorrow in the morning session at Rod Laver Arena. “Every match is different, I’m not going to anticipate anything — I’m just going to be ready and we’ll see,” Swiatek said.

UPDATE: Swiatek defeated Collins 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 in the second round of the 2024 Australian Open.

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