#MAKEITHAPPEN

Danielle Collins, Pro Tennis Player

09/12/2021

Just last month, Danielle Collins catapulted her way into the top 30 of the world tennis rankings after winning the first two WTA titles of her career, followed by an impressive outing at the recent US Open. But Collins isn't just an ace on the court—outside of the arena, her mettle shines just as bright.

Earlier this year, Collins underwent surgery to remove a cyst the size of a tennis ball in her ovary, a result of endometriosis. She had already been playing through years of crippling endometriosis pain; now, the cyst was pressing against her spinal nerve, too. That Collins bounced back so incredibly—after a surgery that required tearing through her core, the abdominal muscles, no less—is a testament to her grit and positive mindset. Here, we chat with the pro on the thrill of the game, what got her started (and what keeps her going) and how she recharges (hint: there's mushroom risotto involved).

My Hustle

My hustle...
Hustle means being gritty. It means working hard every day, no matter what adversaries are thrown at you. It means working towards your goals, and getting back on the horse when you get thrown off. It means not being scared to take chances, wearing your heart on your sleeve, and doing all of this with a sense of joy and purpose because you have a true passion for what you do.

What got me started...
Aside from the cute tennis outfits... the thrill of the game and the ability to challenge myself every day. I genuinely enjoy evolving, improving, and growing each day. I enjoy learning from my mistakes and figuring out ways to improve. The process is what makes everything so fun.

What clears my head...
Being connected with nature, and being with my dogs

When in doubt, I...
I remind myself to BELIEVE.

How I Make It Happen

3 morning musts...
Matcha tea, a cuddle session with my dogs, and some meditation

3 life hacks...
Healthy nourishing foods, a good hair mask, and some cute loving dogs to come home to

3 secret work weapons...
My Babolat racquet, my comfy New Balance tennis romper, and the amazing physiotherapists on the tour that keep me healthy before every match.

Personal talisman...
My Cartier Juste un Clou (the nail bracelet) always reminds me to be tough as nails!

Best advice received...
Always be yourself!

My Style

Favorite wardrobe hack...
My favorite wardrobe hack is investing in a good pair of sneakers! You can dress them up, or dress them down for a more casual/comfy look.

My wardrobe MVP...
Anything animal print. I love the quote, “I’ve never met an animal print that I didn’t love.”

What I'd tell my younger self about getting dressed...
Invest in your wardrobe. Invest in a good jean that is comfortable. Don’t be afraid to take chances and to mix up your looks with a cool sneaker. A classic blazer and jeans can go a long way in your closet as well.

Wearing Veronica Beard makes me feel...
I feel like an empowered woman. I am obsessed with the Veronica Beard original tailored jacket as it is a glorious feminine interpretation of a masculine jacket that most men have in their closet. The jacket is reimagined in the coolest way to feel feminine and the dickey is like the secret surprise. Veronica Beard has a real classic style but also has a bit of a rock n' roll edge to their looks that feels so fresh and new. As I live in athletic clothes to and from the tennis court, it is such a treat to get dressed and feel strong and beautiful. When you look strong, you feel strong. A huge bonus is that Veronica Beard is founded by 2 women. They know what women want and create clothes that women covet.

My Recharge

What I'm reading/listening to/binging...
Lewis Howes podcasts, and The Ultimate Surfer!

Beauty/self-care must-haves...
Beauty Counter’s sunscreen, Vitamin C serum, mascara, Kevin Murphy products, and Davine's OI shampoo and conditioner.

Favorite thing to do...
Being connected to nature. Whether it’s playing tennis at a park by the water, taking the dogs to the beach, going on a hike, having a glass of wine at some wineries with friends, or watching a rainstorm. Nature always has a calming effect on me.

Favorite thing to make...
I love cooking with my girlfriends. Mushroom risotto is a special in my kitchen.

One mover and shaker I admire...
Sara Blakey, founder of Spanx. She is from the same hometown as me. I admire her philanthropic ways and bubbly personality. Learning about her story and seeing her tireless work ethic, gritty personality, and fearlessness inspires me to not be afraid to take a chance and continue going after my dreams every day.