"Can somebody request walk-on songs?" – Destanee Aiava suggests new WTA entrance tradition

Danielle Collins made quite an impression at this year's Australian Open, showcasing her tenacity and bold personalityon court. The American’s relationship with the crowd was a major talking point throughout the competition, particularly during her second-round match against Australia’s Destanee Aiava.

Aiava pushed Collins to the absolute limit, but ultimately, the American prevailed. Since their high-intensity clash, Aiava has sparked a debate about how tennis could evolve for fans.

Aiava’s matchup with Collins

When the draw pitted Collins and Aiava against each other, few expected it to become one of the most talked-about matches of the tournament. The contest lasted two hours and 25 minutes, with Collins eventually securing a 7-6, 4-6, 6-2 victory to advance to the third round.

The match was tight from the start, with Collins edging a first-set tiebreak. Aiava fought back in the second, capitalising on a break of serve to level the contest. However, Collins proved too strong in the third, sealing victory in dominant fashion.

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As expected, the home crowd rallied behind Aiava, creating an electric atmosphere. Collins, however, was unfazed by the hostility. After her victory, she responded by blowing kisses to the crowd before addressing the situation in her post-match interview.

"I was thinking during the match, I'm out of here; I might as well just take that big, fat paycheck," Collins joked.

"CoCo [Vandeweghe, who was in her support box] and I love a good five-star vacation. So part of that cheque is going to go towards that. So thank you, guys, for coming out here and supporting us tonight!"

She later embraced the crowd’s energy, saying it motivated her even more.

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"I've been doing this my whole life. I love playing in a crowd that has energy, regardless of what side they're on. It motivates me even more. It helped me in the end. It just helped me concentrate more and challenged me at times. It just pushed me through the finish line."

Collins went on to boldly acknowledge her critics:

"One of the greatest things about being a professional athlete is the people who don’t like you and hate you; they pay your bills. It’s a cool concept.

"My professional career is not going to last forever, so I remind myself they’re paying my bills when I have that stuff. Every person who’s bought a ticket to come out here and heckle me or do what they do is going towards the Danielle Collins Fund.

"Yeah, bring it on. I love it … All I have to say is seriously, good luck trying to get under the skin of somebody that doesn’t care."

Aiava’s walk-on song suggestion

Destanee Aiava

Following her match with Collins, Aiava made an intriguing proposal for the future of tennis, suggesting that players be allowed to choose their own walk-on songs, much like in boxing.

"Can somebody on the player council request walk-on songs that we choose ourselves for WTA [events]/Slams as they have in boxing?" Aiava asked.

"It would add so much spice, especially if you and your opponent have beef and you're throwing shade from the get-go with your choice of walk-on song.

"Like imagine walking on to this song, about to play someone you hate. Automatic win."

The idea was well-received by tennis fans, with many expressing enthusiasm for the concept:

"Yes, at least at Grand Slams, this would be so cool."

"Fantastic idea."

"I’d love this so much!"

WTA council member Ellen Perez acknowledged the proposal but pointed out some logistical challenges.

"I mean, I can propose it if you like," Perez responded. "The only issue is we don't have very long walk-outs.

"Like Centre Court of a Slam might be the longest, but otherwise, everywhere else, it's one player after another, ten seconds max.

"Only the big courts/stadiums, and it starts when you're in the hallway waiting to walk on."

Could the WTA introduce walk-on songs?

Aiava’s suggestion has sparked conversation, and it remains to be seen whether it will gain traction within the WTA. If implemented, it could add a unique entertainment factor to tennis, giving players another way to express their personalities while further engaging the crowd.

As the sport continues to evolve and attract new fans, proposals like this could enhance the overall viewing experience and make matches even more exciting for both players and spectators.

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