Australian Open star slaps backside, boasts about 'big fat $180,000 cheque' and blasts crowd after win
WATCH NOW: Sports round-up as Danielle Collins sparks Australian Open controversy
American tennis star Danielle Collins sparked controversy at the Australian Open after an inflammatory post-match display following her victory over home favourite Destanee Aiava.
Collins, seeded 10th in the tournament, slapped her backside and taunted the crowd after securing a 7-6, 4-6, 6-2 win in the second round.
The 31-year-old then cupped her hand to her ear and blew kisses to spectators who were booing her.
In her post-match interview, Collins boasted about the prize money whilst continuing to antagonise the crowd.
American tennis star Danielle Collins sparked controversy at the Australian Open after an inflammatory post-match display following her victory over home favourite Destanee Aiava
REUTERS
"During the match I was like, while I'm out here I might as well take that big fat pay check," Collins declared as boos echoed around the court.
The former Australian Open finalist, who has earned £147,000 by reaching the third round, went on to detail her holiday plans.
"Me and my girlfriends we love a five-star holiday so I can guarantee that next check is going to go towards a five-star trip, hopefully to the Bahamas," she said.
Danielle Collins slapped her backside after making it into round three of the Australian Open
REUTERS
Collins elaborated on her luxury aspirations, adding: "We like boats. Big boats. We like yachts. Yeah, we'll post about it and let you guys know how it goes."
"We love a five star vacation, so a big part of that will go towards that.
"Thank you guys, thanks for coming out here and supporting us tonight."
READ MORE: Ronnie O'Sullivan retirement verdict reached as snooker rival twists the knife - 'We won't see him'
Collins doubled down on her confrontational stance in her press conference, addressing the hostile crowd reaction.
"Well I'm going to be here for two hours, putting up with all these people, I might as well take the bigger pay check, right?" she said.
The American appeared unfazed by the negative reception, stating: "One of the greatest things about being a professional athlete are that the people that don't like you and that hate you, they actually pay your bills.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
"Every person that has bought a ticket and has come out here to heckle me can do what they do. It's all going towards the Danielle Collins fund. So like, yeah, bring it on I love it."
Collins' behaviour drew criticism on social media, with users questioning her conduct.
"Does Danielle Collins not realise she is playing an Australian in Australia? What does she expect the crowd to do? They're going to support the home player, get over it," one post read.
Danielle Collins also blew kisses to the hostile Australian Open crowd
REUTERS
Another social media user wrote: "Danielle Collins. Through to the next round without a semblance of class."
The controversial American will now face compatriot Madison Keys in the third round of the tournament.
You may like
