Danielle Collins has described the American Billie Jean King Cup team as “a laid-back group” and added that every player on the team is very supportive. This week in Glasgow, Collins, Cori Gauff, Madison Keys, Caty McNally and Taylor Townsend are representing the United States at the BJK Cup Finals.
On Wednesday, the USA kicked off its campaign at the BJK Cup Finals with a 2-1 victory over Poland. Collis defeated Magdalena French in the tie opener, before Magda Linette defeated Keys in the following match to send the tie into a deciding rubber.
In the doubles match, Gauff and McNally saw off Linette and Alicja Rosolska 6-1 6-2 to give the United States an opening win in Glasgow.
Collins on the American BJK Cup team
“I think we have a really laid-back group.
I think everyone is really happy to be here and grateful for the opportunity. We do have some really high-ranked and successful players on the team, but I feel like all of us are very selfless and just want the team to do well and do whatever it takes for the team to be at its best.
To be really honest, I think, no, I think we have been really lucky in that sense, because I think everyone is just such a good team player,” Collins said. Also, Collins admitted that being a part of such a strong group helps relieve pressure.
“Yeah, it’s really nice being a part of a group like this, because you feel the support all the time, and, you know, I know I was thinking of my matches. It almost took some pressure off me today knowing that Maddie was going to play after me, and then we had the doubles, as well, because we have such strong players on the team that can pull us through.
It gives us so much confidence, I think, when all of us are so strong,” Collins added. Next up for Collins and company will be the Czech Republic.
