American Danielle Collins defeated fourth seed Elena Rybakina in straight sets to win the Miami Open – the first WTA 1,000 title of her career.
Collins, who earlier revealed her plans to retire at the end of the 2024 season, beat Kazakhstan’s tar, Rybakina 7-5 6-3 to clinch a third career title, and her first in 3 years.
“I’ve worked so hard and it’s taken me a little bit longer than a lot of players on tour,” said Collins, playing in her home state of Florida.
“Having a whole stadium on my side was something so special. It’s been hard not to get emotional.
Collins becomes only the second unseeded women’s champion in Miami, after Kim Clijsters in 2005 by defeating Rybakina.
Collins this week disclosed her decision to step away from tennis was not unconnected to endometriosis – a condition where cells like those in the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body.
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