Danielle Collins also has rheumatoid arthritis
The American Danielle Collins suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. She announced this week on her Instagram page.
by Florian Goosmann
last edit: Oct 13, 2019, 02:04 pm
The 25-year-old is already the second top player on the WTA tour to suffer from this disease. Caroline Wozniacki was diagnosed with "RA" last year.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common inflammatory disease of the joints and usually begins with pain in the finger or toe joints. Wrists, knees, shoulders and ankles can also be affected, the joints swell and are overheated. The disease progresses in batches.
Collins wrote that she had great moments in 2019, like reaching the semi-finals at the Australian Open, when she first really attracted attention - including after a smooth victory over Angelique Kerber. Over the course of the season, the American climbed to 23rd place in the world rankings.
"I didn't feel particularly well lately," Collins said - and as hard as her illness was, knowing it was a relief because she now understood the pain. She has started treatment and will take on this new challenge, she continued. "Without a doubt, every day without illness is a gift. I am 100 percent determined to stay strong and keep fighting, on and off the tennis court."
"Early diagnosis is important"
Collins will now adjust their diet and training and tournament schedule, it said. Her sports doctor Clifton L. Page stated that the illness was by no means a career-ending thing for an elite athlete. Early diagnosis is important and can limit joint wear. If you are familiar with the disease and handle it well, athletes could further exploit their maximum potential.
Caroline Wozniacki had been diagnosed with "RA" the previous year and also said she wanted to continue playing. Her brother had spoken out months later and said that the Danish woman was getting the right medication to keep the pain within limits. Wozniacki has only played to a limited extent this season.