Danielle Collins made a difficult announcement via Instagram on Wednesday. The World No.33 told the world she has been suffering with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

“Today is a tough day for me as I announce my recent diagnosis with Rheumatoid arthritis,” Collins posted on her social media. “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. 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. As I have started treatment, I am looking forward to embracing this next challenge in life.”

 

 

 

 

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There have been a lot of exciting moments during my 2019 season. I am proud to have made a career high ranking of 23 in the world and the semi finals of the Australian Open, earlier this season. There have also been tough moments, but I am grateful for another year of growth. Today is a tough day for me as I announce my recent diagnosis with Rheumatoid arthritis. 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. 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. As I have started treatment, I am looking forward to embracing this next challenge in life. Without a doubt, every healthy day is a gift and I am one hundred percent committed to keeping strong and continuing to battle on and off the tennis court. 💪🏼🎾 #rheumatoidarthritis #autoimmunedisease #ivegotthis #adversity

A post shared by Danielle Collins (@danimalcollins) on

Oct 9, 2019 at 1:55pm PDT