Danielle Collins Backs Amanda Anisimova for Deep Miami Open Run

The American player could surprise at her home tournament, according to fellow pro Danielle Collins.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:51pm

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The 2026 Miami Open is underway, and several American women's tennis players are hoping to make a deep run at the tournament. While Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff are seen as strong contenders, Danielle Collins believes that Amanda Anisimova, who lives just 20-30 minutes from the tournament site, could be the one to surprise.

Why it matters

The Miami Open is one of the premier events on the women's tennis calendar, and an American player winning the title would be a significant achievement. Anisimova, who has yet to make it past the fourth round in Miami, could use a strong performance at her home tournament to build momentum for the rest of the season.

The details

Anisimova hasn't had the best start to 2026, with early exits in Brisbane and Indian Wells, though she did reach the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and the semifinals in Doha. Collins believes that playing at home could give Anisimova the boost she needs to make a deep run in Miami.

  • The 2026 Miami Open is currently underway.
  • Anisimova reached the fourth round of the Miami Open in 2025 before losing to Emma Raducanu.

The players

Danielle Collins

An American professional tennis player who is currently ranked in the top 20 on the WTA Tour.

Amanda Anisimova

An American professional tennis player who lives approximately 20-30 minutes from the Miami Open tournament site.

Jessica Pegula

An American professional tennis player who is seeded fifth at the 2026 Miami Open.

Coco Gauff

An American professional tennis player who is seeded fourth at the 2026 Miami Open.

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What they’re saying

“Amanda could do it too. I think Amanda really enjoys playing here.”

— Danielle Collins, Professional Tennis Player

What’s next

Anisimova will look to build on her strong performance at Indian Wells and make a deep run at the Miami Open, her home tournament.

The takeaway

While Pegula and Gauff are seen as the top American contenders at the Miami Open, Danielle Collins believes that Amanda Anisimova, who lives near the tournament site, could be the one to surprise and make a deep run at her home event.