Inconsistent seasons, identical ambition: Collins and Samsonova battle for a shot at the Strasbourg title.
Unseeded American Danielle Collins is set to take on eighth seed Liudmila Samsonova in the semifinals of the WTA Strasbourg. Collins battled her way through the draw with trademark grit, first ousting Sofia Kenin in three sets, then fending off wildcard Emma Raducanu in another hard-fought three-setter to reach the quarterfinals. She advanced to the semis after Anna Kalinskaya was forced to withdraw due to injury.
On the other side of the net, Samsonova has looked sharp. She powered past Linda Noskova and wildcard Diane Parry in straight sets. Her real test came against third seed Paula Badosa, where she dug deep in a gritty three-set battle to prevail 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. Now, with a spot in the Strasbourg final at stake, Collins and Samsonova will meet for the second time in their careers.
Collins returns to the Strasbourg semifinals, hoping to go one better than last year when she finished runner-up to Madison Keys. With Keys absent this time, the door is open, but 2025 hasn’t mirrored last season’s highs. Aside from a quarterfinal run in Charleston, Collins has struggled for consistency, often exiting in the early rounds. But her numbers tell a sharper story: 60 aces, 67.4% first-serve points won, and a 46.4% break point conversion rate, making the most of her chances.
Samsonova’s year has been equally up and down. She started strong in Adelaide with a semifinal showing, followed by a quarterfinal in Indian Wells, but has otherwise suffered early exits. Her 10–11 record reflects the inconsistency, though she’s posted solid numbers: a 68.4% first-serve win rate and a 48% break point conversion rate. However, her 31% return games won could leave her vulnerable.
Liudmila Samsonova holds a 1-0 lead in her head-to-head against Danielle Collins, a record that traces back to their lone encounter at the 2023 Citi Open. In that Round of 32 clash, the Russian delivered a commanding win over Collins.
Now, as the two prepare to square off once more, this time in Strasbourg, Collins will be looking to even the score, especially with a spot in the finals on the line. But Samsonova isn’t just defending her record; she’s out to extend it. With both players hungry for a win, expect a fiery rematch.
| Year | Event | Round | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Citi Open | Round of 32 | Liudmila Samsonova | 6-1, 6-3 |
Read More: Which French players have received wild cards for 2025 Roland Garros?
| Danielle Collins | Category | Liudmila Samsonova |
| 46 | Ranking | 19 |
| 277-162 | Career W-L | 315-206 |
| 9-6 | YTD W-L | 10-11 |
| 4 | Career Titles | 5 |
| 0 | Grand Slams | 0 |
| 0 | YTD Titles | 0 |
Both Collins and Samsonova have had uneven seasons but carry strong serving stats and big-match experience. Collins brings momentum and grit, while Samsonova’s power and efficiency on serve could tip the balance. It’s a close contest overall.
Prediction: Danielle Collins in straight sets
Here are the betting odds according to BetMGM:
Danielle Collins: 11/20
Liudmila Samsonova: 7/5
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