In a surprising turn of events, American tennis star Danielle Collins withdrew from her women's singles match against Iga Swiatek at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday. After Collins retired while trailing 6-2, 1-6, 4-1, she engaged in a heated exchange with Swiatek that left the Polish player visibly shocked. The incident has sparked speculation about what transpired between the two athletes.
American tennis star Danielle Collins shocked many by withdrawing from her women's singles match against Iga Swiatek of Poland at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Wednesday. Collins, who was trailing 6-2, 1-6, 4-1 at the time of her retirement, had a brief but intense exchange with Swiatek after shaking hands.
Danielle Collins Bows Out of Olympics, Storming Off After Confrontation with Iga Swiatek
Swiatek's reaction to Collins' words was telling. As Collins stormed off the court, the Polish player threw her hands up in disbelief, indicating that she was taken aback by what had been said. The exact content of the exchange remains unknown, but Swiatek's reaction suggests that it was far from amicable.
During the match, Collins appeared to take issue with Swiatek's service pace. When Swiatek raised her hands to indicate she was not ready to receive a serve, Collins voiced her frustration. "There's like no one behind me," she said. "Play at the server's pace." Collins shook her head and stopped a second time before ultimately continuing her service.
Danielle Collins Bows Out of Olympics, Storming Off After Confrontation with Iga Swiatek
Collins, who has dealt with rheumatoid arthritis in the past, did not specify the reason for her retirement. However, it is possible that her ongoing health condition may have played a role in her decision to withdraw.
Despite Collins' withdrawal, Swiatek's Olympic campaign continues. The Polish player, who has been in impressive form this season, will face Qinwen Zheng in the quarterfinals. Zheng has also impressed in Paris, defeating American Emma Navarro and former world number one Angelique Kerber.
Danielle Collins Bows Out of Olympics, Storming Off After Confrontation with Iga Swiatek
With Collins' exit, no American players remain in the women's singles event at the Olympics. Coco Gauff suffered a surprising loss in the third round to Croatia's Donna Vekic, while Jessica Pegula fell in the second round.
Despite her disappointing end to the Olympics, Collins has established herself as a force to be reckoned with on the tennis circuit. The 28-year-old American has reached the semifinals of the Australian Open twice and won her first WTA title in 2021.
