In a gripping display of resilience and skill, Coco Gauff, the world No. 2 and reigning French Open champion, battled through a challenging match against fellow American Danielle Collins at the 2025 Canadian Open in Montreal. The intense second-round clash, which saw Gauff triumph 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(2) after nearly three hours, was not just a test of athletic prowess but a testament to the deep respect and camaraderie between the two players. Gauff, fresh off her first win since her Roland Garros victory in June, used the post-match spotlight to share heartfelt insights into her relationship with Collins, revealing how the fiery 31-year-old has consistently been a positive presence in her career since her breakout on the WTA Tour.
The match itself was a rollercoaster, marked by Gauff’s staggering 23 double faults and 74 unforced errors, yet her determination shone through as she overcame a two-point deficit in the third set to secure the victory in a decisive tiebreak. Collins, known for her aggressive ball-striking and unapologetic intensity, pushed Gauff to the brink, serving for the match at 6-5 in the decider. Despite her own 13 double faults and 80 unforced errors, Collins’ relentless style made the encounter a true battle of wills. “Danielle is a great ball striker, and for me to break her as many times as I did, there were definitely some positives to take from today,” Gauff said, reflecting on the match’s challenges and her ability to prevail against a formidable opponent.
Beyond the on-court drama, Gauff’s comments illuminated the personal connection she shares with Collins, a bond that has grown stronger over the years. “This is my first time playing Danielle [Collins], I know her very well,” Gauff shared in her post-match interview. “She is obviously a tough competitor and great tennis player, great person. I got to know her really well at the United Cup, and she is always nice to me.” Their relationship deepened during the 2025 United Cup, where they represented Team USA, with Gauff leading the squad to victory by winning all her singles matches, including a standout performance against Iga Swiatek. Collins, though not playing singles, brought infectious energy to the team, which Gauff credited as “critical in some of those tough moments.”
Gauff’s admiration for Collins extends beyond her competitive spirit. She recalled her initial impression of Collins, admitting, “She always struck me as someone that maybe didn’t like to talk much. But when I got to know her, I realized it was quite the opposite. She’s a genuinely nice person, and I always say, ‘Danielle’s going to be Danielle.’” This phrase, which Gauff has often used, encapsulates Collins’ unapologetic authenticity—a trait Gauff deeply respects. “No one can change her, and she doesn’t care either—that’s something I respect. It’s great when someone knows who they are,” Gauff elaborated, highlighting Collins’ unique personality and her ability to stay true to herself in the high-pressure world of professional tennis.
Their bond traces back to shared experiences, including representing the United States at events like the Billie Jean King Cup, where Collins’ encouragement left a lasting impact on Gauff. “I love her,” Gauff said earlier in 2024, recalling a moment at Roland Garros where Collins offered her a supportive gesture after a match. “She touched me on the back and said: Good job. To this day I can’t believe she was talking to me.” These small acts of kindness have shaped Gauff’s view of Collins as not just a competitor but a mentor-like figure who has supported her since her meteoric rise at Wimbledon in 2019 at age 15.
Collins, a former Australian Open finalist and 2024 Miami Open champion, has had her own remarkable journey, overcoming health challenges like rheumatoid arthritis and endometriosis. Her decision to continue playing in 2025, reversing an earlier retirement announcement, has added another chapter to her storied career. Gauff, who at 21 has already secured two Grand Slam titles, sees Collins’ resilience as an inspiration. “I definitely have a lot left in the tank,” Gauff said after the Montreal match, acknowledging her struggles but expressing optimism. “It was a frustrating match for me. I just felt like I was practicing well, and then I didn’t think that transferred today. Hopefully, I got my bad match of the tournament out of the way, and I can come back stronger in the next round.”
As Gauff prepares to face Veronika Kudermetova in the third round, the tennis world is buzzing with anticipation for her US Open title defense. Meanwhile, her praise for Collins underscores a narrative of mutual respect and camaraderie that transcends their fierce on-court battles. Their shared journey as American players, from the United Cup to the Canadian Open, showcases a dynamic where competition fuels growth, and personal connections elevate the sport’s spirit. With Collins’ vibrant energy and Gauff’s relentless drive, their story is one of friendship, respect, and the power of authenticity in the high-stakes world of tennis.
Leave a Reply