As the French Open unfolds, anticipation is building for an exhilarating tournament featuring top contenders such as Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina. However, amidst these rising stars, Andy Roddick, the tennis legend, has spotlighted American players Danielle Collins and Madison Keys as potential underdogs who could challenge the top-ranked players at Roland Garros.
In a recent episode of the ‘Served with Andy Roddick’ podcast, the former World No. 1 shared his insights on how Collins could shake things up for the elite competitors. Roddick expressed, “The only two players I see making waves at the moment based on current form are, obviously, your favorite, The Danimal. She’s on fire right now. The only one who seems to have her number is Sabalenka. That’s it.”
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Adding to his prediction, Roddick also mentioned Madison Keys as another potential dark horse capable of causing trouble for players like Gauff or Rybakina if she maintains her impressive form. Considering the strong performances of both Collins and Keys in recent clay-court events, Roddick’s forecast about these two players might just come to fruition in the coming days.
Furthermore, Roddick elaborated, “In her last two tournaments, Collins has only fallen to Iga. So, similar to Coco. It’s the matchup against Sabalenka that’s proving tricky for her. There are numerous players like her who could make a significant run as long as they don’t have to face Iga, who poses a unique challenge. Besides being superior, she’s just incredibly tough to beat.”
Reflecting on Keys’ performances in Rome and Madrid, it was once again only the world’s top-ranked player who could outshine her. Sabalenka proved to be a formidable opponent for the 15th-ranked Keys.
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Just recently, Roddick drew a parallel between Collins and tennis icon Andre Agassi, noting the similarities in their on-court characteristics.
When Andy Roddick equated Danielle Collins with Andre Agassi
During the Italian Open on a Tennis Channel Live podcast, Roddick observed how Collins’ playing style evoked memories of former World No. 1 Andre Agassi. He remarked, “What I see from you is the ability to command the center of the court and dictate play. Delivering with power, hitting the lines, she positions herself in the center. It’s reminiscent of how Andre Agassi used to play.”
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Furthermore, the explosive shot-making and precise court coverage that characterized Agassi’s style are reflected in Collins’ aggressive baseline game. Like Agassi, Collins is experiencing a resurgence in her career, showcasing a similar trajectory as she progresses.
The competition is heating up at the French Open. Who do you think will emerge victorious? Share your thoughts in the comments below!