Danielle Collins is having a year like never before! The American tennis star is playing the final season of her career, and she’s leaving no stone unturned in achieving 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, showcasing her skill, grit, and tenacity. Fans and commentators alike have been buzzing about her electrifying presence on the court. And now, former NFL player turned tennis buff Dustin Fox is the latest to sing praises for Collins.

Fox engaged in an exclusive interaction with Tennis Channel for their Inside In podcast. He deliberated on 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 that of Collins, during his last playing days.

Chatting in the podcast, the 41-year-old said, “When you are having one of those magical runs you just ride the wave, like Danielle Collins.” To justify the same, he took the example of his own career. “In my career, you know playing career, where I actually sort to got to dictate when I was done.” And Collins is definitely doing things on her own terms.

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

“She’s doing it on her terms, and it’s pretty cool to see. I think the pressure is sort of relieved in that moment where you are like, you know, right what do I have to lose? I have given my life to this, and preparations there and just go out and play.” Collins herself has also revealed similar sentiments.

After announcing her retirement in January this year, the former Australian Open finalist’s remark after the Miami Open was something that elated her fans. Speaking after her victory at Miami in March, she said, “I really think part of the reason why I played so well and did a good job today was because I had that mentality of, like, 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 final events. I want to remember these moments.”

But, even her announcement about retirement is not free from troubles and she believes it to be because of her gender.

‘If I was a guy…’ When Collins opened up about her troubles

Collins announced her decision to retire from the sport in January. She expressed her desire to start a family soon especially because of a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the ability to get pregnant. But ever since she made her decision, she is asked if she would reconsider it. Answering the same, Collins said,

“I find it so interesting, because I felt like when I was announcing my retirement, everyone has been like congratulating me and [been] so excited for me.” Continuing further, she added, “But then on the other hand, I feel I’ve had to justify my decision a lot. I feel like if I was a guy, I probably wouldn’t have to justify it that much.”

But despite the challenges, Danielle Collins has ensured to have a fan following from all across the sports arena. And what the fans would be expecting now, is to see ‘Danimal’ roar again.