"A sacrifice that paid off": Danielle Collins not regretting forgoing 'life experiences' for career after final Grand Slam singles match at US Open

Danielle Collins played her final Grand Slam singles match at the ongoing US Open, exiting after losing to Caroline Dolehide 6-1, 5-7, 4-6. The American, however, has had no second thoughts about retiring from tennis.

Addressing her imminent retirement during her post-match press conference, Collins said she was ready to step away from the spotlight. The American said that she was eager to start a family while also expressing her relief at the prospect of no longer having to travel constantly throughout the year.

"Obviously I've talked a lot about wanting to have children and starting a family, and being excited about that, and just kind of stepping away from being in the spotlight," Collins said.

"You know, I like, you know, the idea of not traveling 40 weeks out of the year. I think that kind of sounds good at this point in my career with all the travel that I've done, even though I have enjoyed it a lot," she added.

The 30-year-old emphasized that athletes dedicate their entire lives to their sport, missing out on many other life experiences. Collins went on to add that all the sacrifices have paid off, and she is now looking forward to her life outside of tennis.

"Yeah, I think a lot of us, we dedicate our whole lives to it, to the sport, to the travel, you give up a lot of life experiences, other life experiences for your career," the American said.

"You know, it was a sacrifice I think that paid off, and I'm happy that I did it. But yeah, looking forward to other things that I'll get to be able to participate in, you know, that I haven't," she added.

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"Credit to her" - Danielle Collins after losing US Open 1R clash to compatriot Caroline Dolehide

Danielle Collins at the 2024 US Open (Image via Getty)

Danielle Collins also commented on her performance in her match against Caroline Dolehide, saying she had her moments despite the final result not being in her favor. She was quick to praise her opponent, Dolehide, stating that she played very well and returned many of the balls.

"There were times that I had some good shots," Collins said. "And there were times that it didn't go my way, but I think overall Caroline played, you know, very well and was running down a lot of balls. So all credit to her."

Notably, the first-round victory was Dolehide’s first main-draw win at the US Open. The 25-year-old will next take on former French Open finalist Sara Errani in the second round on August 29.