American tennis star Danielle Collins confronted heavy criticism for her actions and feedback after defeating Australian qualifier Destanee Aiava within the second spherical of the Australian Open. The match led to a hard-fought 7-6, 4-6, 6-2 victory for Collins, but it surely was her response to the group that stole the highlight.
After the match, Collins, who was booed by the house crowd for her celebratory antics, slapped her bottom and cupped her ear in response to the jeers. She additionally blew kisses to the viewers, additional fuelling the stress.
In her on-court interview, Collins addressed the group instantly, saying:
“Throughout the match, I believed, ‘Whereas I’m out right here, I would as nicely take that huge fats pay cheque.’ We love a five-star trip, so an enormous a part of that can go in the direction of that. Thanks for popping out and supporting us tonight. Love you!”
The 31-year-old, who reached the Australian Open remaining in 2022, defended her feedback in a post-match press convention. Collins remarked:
“Being knowledgeable athlete means even the individuals who don’t such as you or hate you might be paying your payments. Each ticket offered contributes to the Danielle Collins fund, so I say, deliver it on. I adore it.”
She additionally revealed plans to make use of her prize cash for a luxurious vacation, including:
“My girlfriends and I really like five-star holidays. I’m considering of a visit to the Bahamas, with huge boats and yachts. We’ll publish about it and let you know the way it goes.”
Collins’ remarks sparked outrage on social media, with followers calling her “classless” and criticising her for mocking the Australian crowd.
“Does Danielle Collins not realise she’s enjoying an Australian in Australia? What does she anticipate the group to do? Zero class tonight,” one fan wrote.
One other added:
“Danielle Collins is thru to the following spherical, however with out a shred of sophistication.”
Collins’ opponent, Destanee Aiava, had earlier shared her {financial} struggles as a lower-ranked participant, explaining how her current earnings would enable her to afford journey and produce a companion to tournaments. This distinction heightened criticism of Collins’ remarks.
Collins, the match’s tenth seed, has already earned £147,000 by reaching the third spherical. She is going to face fellow American Madison Keys in her subsequent match.
Whereas her tennis expertise stay simple, her actions and phrases have sparked a heated debate about sportsmanship and crowd interplay.