Danielle Collins has not played a match since her quarterfinal exit at the Charleston and is next expected to compete at the Italian Open. However, ahead of her campaign in Rome, the American subtly recalled her ‘5-Star Vacation’ controversy.
Danielle Collins sparked controversy at the 2025 Australian Open with her taunting remarks directed at a section of the crowd. The American could only make it to the third round, where she was eliminated by the eventual champion Madison Keys.
Danielle Collins Brings Back “5-Star Vacation” Remark Ahead Of Italian Open Campaign
Collins’ Australian Open controversy this year erupted during her second-round match against local girl Destanee Aiava. The American was met with jeers from the crowd throughout the match, and she didn’t take it lightly. In response, she mocked the spectators after winning the match and blew kisses to them.
During her post-match press conference, Collins also said that she would use her Australian Open paycheck to sponsor a five-star vacation to the Bahamas. She did enjoy a getaway in the Bahamas a few days later and shared pictures of the trip online. The 31-year-old, who is currently in Rome for the Internazionali BNL D’Italia, expressed her excitement on being in the city and brought back her “5-Star vacation” quote from the Australian Open.
“Hi everyone Danielle here. Can’t wait to get started here in Rome. I’ve had a great first day on these beautiful courts, feels like I am on a 5-star vacation. It’s one of my favorite tournaments. So looking forward to getting back out there and competing,” she said in a video.
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Danielle Collins Explained Why A Hostile Crowd Motivates Her To Perform Better
Collins has never shied away from speaking her mind, especially when responding to a hostile crowd. During her on-court interview after her second-round match at the Australian Open, the American tated that the tough crowd inspired her to take the “bigger paycheck.”
“It was a tough crowd, and I figured if I’m going to be out here, I better take home that bigger paycheck. Thanks for the paycheck, Australia,” she said.
Collins also revealed that this kind of situation motivates her to do better, stating:
“I’m definitely somebody who needs a bit of a fire under my a**. All of this just motivates me to do better. It’s a pretty amazing feeling as an athlete because the people who dislike or hate you pay your bills. That’s a really rewarding feeling to be out here. It just feels like a really great day.”
Collins has had a subpar season so far, having amassed just seven wins out of 12 matches.
