The USA's Danielle Collins reached the first Grand Slam final of her career after sinking Iga Swiatek in straight sets during their Australian Open semi-final on Thursday.
Collins raced into a 3-0 lead in the first set before Poland's Swiatek started to find her stride, but the American still raced to a 6-4 win before a dominant showing in the second set.
Serving seven aces and winning six of her 10 break points on the day, Collins marched to a 6-4 6-1 win at the Rod Laver Arena and now prepares to meet world number one and home favourite Ashleigh Barty for a shot at glory.
"It feels amazing, it's been such a journey, and it doesn't happen overnight, so many hours at an early age on court," Collins said during her on-court interview. "It's incredible to be on this stage and especially with the health challenges I've had. I'm so grateful, I couldn't be happier.
"I have certainly added a little more variety to my game over the last couple of years, but this is my Plan A. I wanted to execute this game plan as best as I could, and it was working really well for me.
"For whatever reason in this tournament this clock seems to be going faster, and I don't really feel like I have time to sit down! I've been standing up when I sleep at night!"
Looking ahead to Saturday's final with Barty, Collins responded: "To play against the number one player in the world in her home country is going to be really special. It's so good to have everyone back after COVID and I can't wait to hopefully have a great match with Ash."
Earlier on Thursday, Barty booked her place in the final by easing to a 6-1 6-3 win over Collins's compatriot Madison Keys, and the two players are meeting for the first time since Collins won in straight sets during the 2021 Adelaide International last February.
Ben Knapton
