Danielle Collins’ reign in Rome came to a disappointing end yesterday. As she competed against World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinal of the Italian Open, Collins struggled with her usual form. Talking about her style of play, the former WTA player Monica Puig brought attention to the “quiet” demeanor of Collins during the match.

According to the retired Puerto Rican player, Aryna Sabalenka has cracked the “Collins riddle” successfully. During a conversation with Andy Roddick in the Tennis Channel Live Podcast, the Olympic gold medalist, Puig, pointed out, how Aryna Sabalenka “started to work her way into the match from there even more playing some beautiful tennis, and pretty much dismantled Danielle Collins, which is something that we have not seen.”

Puig continued, “Collins, a little bit subdued on the court, was very quiet. Not really a fiery, emotional Collins that we are used to seeing”. The match statistics indeed reflect Puig’s observations. As Aryna Sabalenka delivered her usual powerful strokes, Collins faced defeat with a score of 7-5, 6-2. 

The American tennis pro, who was enjoying a streak of 15 consecutive wins, lacked her usual spark against Sabalenka. Especially her service game, which is generally her strength, did not serve her well in her semifinal match. And, the Belarusian player, utilizing this to her advantage, overpowered Danielle Collins. With her aggressive style of play, Saba did not leave any chance for Collins to gain her momentum back during the match.

However, according to Puig, “you have to kind of beg the question. She was starting to feel tired, has played a lot of tennis as of late, Daniell Collins.” The soon-to-be retiring 30-year-old player has been hitting with her racquet in back-to-back matches since January. Although among them, she has won the Miami Open and the Charleston Open, the tight schedule of the tour is indeed difficult to battle. Earlier this year, Collins herself admitted this during an interview.

Danielle Collins reveals why she is “due for a vacation at some time”

Danielle Collins’ journey this season started back in January with Brisbane International. Since then, the former World No. 7 has played back-to-back matches, with Italian Open being her 12th station! Naturally, exhaustion is sure to catch up with her. 

Even after having a successful run at the Miami Open, she admitted that her “obligations” compelled her to travel back to Charleston without properly celebrating her maiden title in Miami. Although she went on to achieve the Charleston title as well, after her victory, she stated, “but yeah at some point I’m going to take a vacation.”

Continuing her statement, she shed light on the intense pressure of performing in back-to-back matches. “I’ve only spent about 5 days at home since December. No, 25th, I left on Christmas Day for Australia. So, I’m due for a vacation at some point.” But before that, as she progresses on her last tour, we all hope she comes back with greater power and in full form in her upcoming tournament.