Danielle Collins Slams Hecklers
American tennis player Danielle Collins, the 10th seed at the Australian Open, fired back at hecklers during her second-round victory over Destanee Aiava, saying they "pay her bills" and credited the hostile crowd for motivating her to win.
Collins, who has been dealing with fertility issues and had initially planned to retire in 2024 before postponing it, earned $290,000 at Melbourne Park and plans to spend it on a luxurious trip to the Bahamas. The 31-year-old tennis star accused the crowd of being "super drunk" for booing her throughout the match, but still managed to secure a spot in the third round alongside compatriot Madison Keys.
The crowd's constant cheering for Aiava seemed to frustration Collins, who directed her anger towards the fans by mimicking their cheers, blowing kisses, and slapping her backside. Despite this, Collins praised the crowd for motivating her to win, stating it was a "super nice feeling" to have them contribute to her earnings. With this victory, Collins ensures an American presence in the last 16, alongside Madison Keys.
Collins' victory marks a significant milestone in her career, as she continues to push through challenges both on and off the court. Her determination and resilience in the face of adversity have earned her a spot in the third round, and she will look to build on this momentum in her upcoming matches.