CINCINNATI — American tennis star Danielle Collins revealed the excruciating injury that forced her to scream and cry on court during her Cincinnati Open defeat, describing it as one of the most painful moments of her career. The 29-year-old, known for her fierce competitiveness, was visibly distressed during her second-round match against Aryna Sabalenka, ultimately retiring in tears.
Collins, who has battled chronic health issues in the past, including rheumatoid arthritis, explained that the sudden onset of "unbearable nerve pain" in her lower back left her unable to continue. "I’ve played through a lot of pain, but this was different—like lightning shooting down my leg," she said post-match, her voice shaking.
The Moment Everything Changed
Midway through the first set, Collins collapsed to the ground after a serve, clutching her lower back and screaming in agony. The crowd fell silent as medical staff rushed to her aid. "I couldn’t move. Every step felt like someone was stabbing me," she recounted. Despite attempts to continue, she retired at 1-4, unable to bear the pain.
Sabalenka, the eventual tournament champion, expressed concern for her opponent: "I hate seeing anyone hurt like that. Tennis is our passion, but health comes first." Collins later confirmed the injury was a "severe nerve impingement" in her lumbar spine, requiring immediate treatment.
A History of Health Struggles
Collins has faced multiple health challenges throughout her career, including:
- A 2019 diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation
- Endometriosis surgery in 2021, which sidelined her for months
- Recurring back issues dating back to her college tennis days
The Road to Recovery
Collins confirmed she underwent an MRI and is working with specialists to avoid long-term damage. "I’m doing everything—physical therapy, injections, rest. I want to finish the season strong," she said, though she withdrew from the upcoming Cleveland event.
Fans and fellow players rallied around her on social media, with Venus Williams tweeting: "Danielle is one of the toughest competitors out there. Sending healing vibes—we need her back!"
What’s Next for Collins?
The injury casts doubt on her US Open participation, though Collins remains hopeful. "I’ll fight to be there. This isn’t how I want my season to end," she said. Her team emphasized that while the pain is acute, it isn’t career-threatening with proper care.
Tennis analyst Pam Shriver noted Collins’ resilience: "She’s overcome so much already. If anyone can bounce back, it’s her." Collins, who plans to retire after 2024, is determined to finish on her terms.
The WTA has not commented on the specifics of her injury but reiterated its support for player health. A spokesperson stated: "Player welfare is our priority. We’re providing Danielle with all necessary resources."
Collins’ ordeal highlights the physical toll of professional tennis. "People don’t see the pain behind the rallies," she said. "But I’ll keep fighting—that’s who I am."
As she focuses on recovery, the tennis world awaits updates. For now, Collins’ courage in speaking openly about her pain has resonated deeply with fans and peers alike.