‘Tennis Gonna Lose a Lot’ – Danielle Collins’ Inevitable Retirement Draws a Soul-Stirring Reaction From Charleston Final Opponent

‘Danimal’ looks absolutely unstoppable at the moment. After clinching her first WTA 1000 title in Miami just a few weeks ago, Danielle Collins has now clinched her second WTA 500 title in Charleston. Daria Kasatkina, who was on the losing end of a 6-2,6-1 margin in the finals of the Credit One Charleston Open, was in awe of the American who is now in the 15th spot in the women’s singles ranking.

With kind words for Danielle Collins after losing to her at the finals of Charleston, Kasatkina congratulated Collins by saying she would miss her once she retires. With a cheeky line, the Russian player also added that her absence from the court would be a huge loss for the sport.

“You’re such a character” – Daria Kasatkina reveres Danielle Collins

Danielle Collins announced earlier this year that this would be her last season on tour as a player. She has dealt with endometriosis over the last few years but now, Collins wants to focus on having children and living a happy family life away from these hectic schedules of tennis life. In her last year on the court, Collins is on fire and Daria Kasatkina is only left amazed.

Reflecting, on her retirement announcement, Kasatkina jokingly said, “First of all congrats to Danielle. Danimal. At first, I wanted to say I’ll miss you on tour but after this match, I’m not sure.” After that, she went on to add, “To be honest, I’m gonna miss you because you’re such a character. Your personality is amazing. Tennis is gonna lose a lot after you’re done. Enjoy these moments.” Fans inside the Credit One Stadium gave a round of applause for her heartwarming message to the ‘Unstoppable Collins.’

As for Danielle Collins, the 30-year-old now just wants to keep the ball rolling and be ready for whatever comes her way. But she doesn’t want to think too much about the future. Talking about her post-retirement plans, Collins’ recent success will not have a major impact on her plans for the future.

“Everyone has a different way of retiring” – Collins

During the interview, Danielle Collins hinted that these results aren’t going to change much of her plans for her tennis career. She stated, “I’m really happy that I can showcase my best tennis in these last couple of events because I think that’s the way I want to go out.” Danielle Collins wants to take retirement from tennis with the best results on her side.

It’s common to wonder if a player is retiring because their career is fizzling out, but Collins is on the opposite end of the spectrum. Which, for many, would make retirement seem like an illogical choice. But the American is confident of her decision.

She added, “I know everyone has a different way of retiring and ending their career, but for me, I want to try to go out playing my best tennis.” What are your thoughts on this amazing journey of Danielle Collins so far this season?

READ MORE: Danielle Collins Confesses to ‘Dying For’ Fulfilling Her Ultimate Goal With Serena Williams