Watching Venus and Serena Williams has inspired numerous American tennis players to reach the sport’s biggest stages, including Danielle Collins. As she enjoys her final year on the professional circuit before retirement, Collins has openly expressed her admiration for the Williams sisters and other WTA legends who have profoundly shaped her career.

Danielle Collins, who is getting ready to play in her last US Open, recently reflected on how witnessing tennis greats like the Williams sisters, Jennifer Capriati, and Anna Kournikova affected her in her early years. Coming from humble beginnings herself, Collins observed these trailblazing players to envision what her own life in tennis could be.

“Seeing these women play on the biggest stages in the world, I thought it was so cool. I felt like if those athletes could do it, maybe I could give it a try and go after my dreams of being in their shoes one day. That’s how it started for me,” Collins stated in an interview with the Guardian.

The 30-year-old recalled how imagining herself in their position fueled her determination and resilience, teaching her that with hard work and dedication, she could overcome any obstacle. Collins, who became only the second American to win back-to-back events in Miami and Charleston, had expressed her tremendous admiration for the Williams sisters earlier this year as well.

In an interview with Tennis Channel, she revealed, “Serena was my idol. I think the Williams sisters taught all of us it doesn’t matter where you come from, doesn’t matter your background, what you look like, how much money your parents have. If you set your mind to something and you work your tail off, anything’s possible.”

The Williams sisters’ example influenced Collins’ tennis career, which inspired her to fulfill her goals and perform at the highest level of the sport. But Danimal has a unique wish that still remains unfulfilled. Now, what’s that?

Danielle Collins ‘dying for a karaoke night’ with Serena Williams

After winning both the Miami Open and Charleston Open back-to-back, Danielle Collins, shared a unique wish while talking to Tennis Channel. Danimal stated a wish to meet Serena Williams in a setting where they could have a karaoke night because both are passionate about singing.

She said, “I’m still really hoping, because I know, like I love karaoke and I know Serena really loves karaoke, and I’m just dying for a karaoke night at some point with Serena. I really want to make that happen in the future. You know, we both live in Florida, so I’m really hoping we’re gonna get a karaoke night one of these days.”

Collins added that she is hopeful about getting her desire granted because both she and Williams reside in Florida. The 30-year-old also included Venus Williams in the list, as she also likes karaoke.

From dreaming of a karaoke night with her idol to following in her footsteps on the court, Collins’ journey is a testament to the powerful influence Serena Williams has had on the next generation of tennis players.