Madison Keys of the U.S. celebrates after defeating Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus in the women’s singles final at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025.
Ng Han Guan/AP
Ng Han Guan/AP
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Madison Keys captured her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Entering the match as the 19th seed, Keys faced off against Aryna Sabalenka, who was on the cusp of a third consecutive win at the tournament.
“I have wanted this for so long and I have been in one other grand slam final. It did not go my way and I didn’t know if I was ever going to be able to get back to this position to try to win a trophy again,” Keys expressed emotionally in her post-match interview, reflecting on her journey through injuries to reach this pinnacle of her career.
The competition was stiff, with Sabalenka holding the title of world number one in singles and number two in doubles. Despite her formidable record at the Australian Open, Keys managed to unseat her with a powerful performance, particularly in the decisive final set.
Madison Keys, right, of the U.S. is congratulated by Aryna Sabalenka, left, of Belarus following the women’s singles final at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025.
Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP/AP
Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP/AP
The long road to Keys’ victory
Keys’ journey to this victory began at a young age, debuting professionally on her 14th birthday. Despite early promise, including a win over Serena Williams, her Grand Slam pursuits often came up short. Her only previous final was in 2017 at the U.S. Open, where she was defeated by Sloane Stephens. Overcoming injuries and fluctuating rankings, Keys showed resilience by returning to form, hitting a career milestone at the Australian Open.
In 2022, Keys reached the Australian Open semifinals but was bested by Sabalenka. Fast forward three years, and it was a different narrative as Keys emerged victorious in their rematch.
Madison Keys of the U.S. hugs the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup after defeating Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus in the women’s singles final at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025.
Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP/AP
Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP/AP
Keys’ rematch came down to the final set of the tournament
Before facing Sabalenka, Keys had already shown impressive form, defeating players like Danielle Collins and world No. 2 Iga Świątek. In the finals, she capitalized on Sabalenka’s early nerves, winning the first set with precision. Sabalenka’s serve improved in the second set, leveling the match.
The final set was a tense battle, with Sabalenka aiming for a historic third consecutive title and Keys seeking her first Grand Slam triumph. Locked at 5-5, Keys found the energy to overpower Sabalenka, securing her victory with a final burst of skill.
“I think we did our best, just Madison was doing incredible and I couldn’t do anything in this match,” Sabalenka said after the game. “Next time I play Madison I will bring better tennis. Of course, sending love to my team. I love you even though we lost.”
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
