Australian Open semi-finalist Danielle Collins has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis after complaining of ‘not feeling great’ for some time.
The 25-year-old confirmed she had the chronic condition in a statement published on Thursday. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and stiffness in the joints. Usually affecting the hands, feet and wrists. During flare ups the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells, which line the joints.
“I have not been feeling all that great for quite some time, but it has been somewhat of a relief and completely validating to understand the cause behind my pain.” Collins said in an Instagram post.
“I am certainly not the first person who has been diagnosed with a chronic illness, and I really feel for all of the people out there who are struggling.”
In a statement published by Collins’ team, medical experts believes she has been suffering from the condition for a long period of time before getting a diagnosis. Adjustments will be made to her diet and training programme in order to help her body recover.
“While I don’t know for sure what my journey to recovery will be, I do know that I feel positive about getting back on the court.” Collins said. “I feel like now I can get better and address my body’s needs in fighting this disease.”
Clifton Page, who is Collins’ doctor, has insisted that the condition isn’t as severe as it what it initially sounds. Insisting that the American should still be able to have a successful career as long as she manages her condition.
“For the elite athletes, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not a career ending diagnoses.” Said Dr Page. “Early diagnoses and modern RA treatment can manage symptoms, limit join destruction and preserve the longevity of active individuals. Being educated on the disease and having a good management plan can help keep athletes playing at their maximum potential.” He added.
Collins has experienced a breakthrough in her career at the start of this year with her run to the Australian Open semi-finals in January. Her best ever grand slam performance. However, in recent times the American has experienced a mixture of results on the tour. She hasn’t won back-to-matches in 10 out of her last 11 tournaments. The only exception being at Wimbledon when she reached the third round. She has been ranked as high as 23rd in the world.
In 2018 former world No.1 Caroline Wozniacki revealed that she also suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and has been vocal about her battle with the disease. In an interview with The Telegraph, the Dane said she hopes to inspire other suffers. This year the world No.24 has reached the final of the Charleston Open and more recently the semi-finals of the China Open.
Collins will return to action next week at the Luxembourg Open. She is set to be seeded fourth in the draw.