Collins defeats Rybakina in Miami final to claim WTA 1000 championship

Unseeded American Danielle Collins triumphed at the WTA 1000 Miami Open by defeating No.4 seed Elena Rybakina 7-5, 6-3. The 30-year-old clinched her third career WTA singles title in a power-packed 2-hour and 2-minute showdown, marking her first title win since 2021 and moving her to World No. 22.
Collins becomes the first American woman to claim the Miami Open title since Sloane Stephens in 2018, joining the ranks of tennis legends like Venus and Serena Williams. Despite her decision to retire at the end of the season due to health issues, Collins plans to continue playing until at least the US Open, savoring every moment on the court.
Expressing her joy and gratitude, Collins stated, “What a dream come true, to have played at the level that I have played consistently over the last two weeks.” She highlighted the incredible support from fans, making her feel like she was competing in front of thousands of friends. Winning a WTA 1000 was a goal for Collins in her final season, emphasizing the importance of cherishing these last moments in her tennis career.
As Collins basks in the glory of her Miami Open victory, she reflects on the unique journey that led her to this milestone. With a resilient spirit and determination, she overcame challenges to claim her well-deserved title, leaving a lasting impression on the tennis world.