Danielle Collins Opens Up About Fertility Struggles, Reverses Retirement Decision

MELBOURNE, Australia — Danielle Collins, the former world No. 7 tennis player, had no intention of competing at this year’s Australian Open. However, after facing personal setbacks, the 31-year-old American is back at Melbourne Park, finding solace in the routines of tennis.

Collins, who had planned to retire at the end of 2024 to start a family, revealed in October that she would continue playing in 2025. The decision came after she encountered challenges related to endometriosis, a chronic gynecological condition that has complicated her plans to conceive. “I was looking forward to trying to start a family right away and to start a new chapter,” Collins told reporters at Melbourne Park on Saturday. “But sometimes these things get thrown at you, different curveballs. Now it’s just kind of like, well, I can enjoy some more time on tour, which is a bonus.”

Collins, who reached the 2022 Australian Open final before losing to Ash Barty, said her return to the court is less about unfinished business and more about her love for the game. Tennis has become a welcome distraction from her personal struggles. “I have been doing this for seven, eight years. My closest friendships are a lot of the women on tour, a lot of the people on tour,” she said. “You think about that lifestyle change when you’re going through something that’s so challenging emotionally, and then to not have that support system, that’s … yeah, it’s a lot. So I’m glad that I can keep doing this for a little bit longer.”

Collins, who represented the United States at the United Cup earlier this month, will face Ukraine qualifier Daria Snigur in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday. She acknowledged the emotional toll of her fertility struggles, saying, “I have had days consistently where I cry every day and am freaking out. It’s not, you know, a fun thing.” Despite the challenges, Collins remains focused on her tennis career while navigating the complexities of her health. “Sure, I could try to get some of the stuff started,” she said. “The physical challenges that come along with that for me are a bit more complex. It’s gonna take a bit more time for my medical team to figure out what the best course of action will be.”

Collins began her 2025 season at the Adelaide International but was eliminated in the first round. Her return to Melbourne Park marks a new chapter in her career, one shaped by resilience and a renewed appreciation for the sport she loves.