A prominent tennis player has welcomed a dog into her home after finding him injured during the Miami Open.
Danielle Collins, 31, who was competing in Florida, encountered the injured animal.
Despite losing to world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka on Monday, the American player`s trip to the tournament was not without a positive outcome.
Last Saturday, Collins discovered a dog hurt and lying on the road, a victim of a car accident.
Collins, ranked No.15 in the world, immediately took the injured dog to a vet and appealed to her Instagram followers for prayers.
Now, having brought the dog home, Collins has introduced him as “Crash”.
In a further update, the former Australian Open finalist shared: “Crash is recovering well and has been discharged from the hospital after five days of oxygen therapy.”
“His breathing has returned to normal, his wounds are healing, and he is clearly enjoying all the affection he is receiving. He is curious, loving, and thankful for a second chance at life.”
“It was deeply distressing to see a dog in such pain after being hit by a car and left on the roadside as people drove past.”
“I am simply grateful I was there to ensure he received the necessary care.”
“I have officially adopted him. Once he is fully recovered, he will begin training.”
Collins, who reached the semi-finals of the Wimbledon women`s doubles in 2022, had initially planned to retire at the end of the previous season.
However, citing fertility concerns linked to her ongoing battle with endometriosis, Collins announced that she would continue playing.
The former Olympian explained on social media: “It has been a challenging period with the devastating hurricanes in Florida, compounded by my ongoing issues with endometriosis and other health problems.”
“Although I was excited to conclude my tennis career on a high note this year and eagerly begin the next chapter, things haven`t unfolded as expected.”
“In addition to managing persistent health issues in recent months, I have consulted with several specialists to determine the best path forward to achieve my ultimate aspiration: starting a family.”
“Dealing with endometriosis and fertility presents significant challenges for many women, and it is something I am actively navigating. However, I have full confidence in my medical team. It will simply take more time than initially anticipated.”
“Therefore, the DANIMAL story is not yet over. I will return to the tour in 2025.”
Collins is expected to drop out of the world`s top 20 when the updated rankings are released after the Miami Open.
She is scheduled to commence her clay court season in Charleston next week.
