Madison Keys defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in the Australian Open final, capturing her first Grand Slam title. Along the way, she overcame the world’s top two players, propelling her to 14th in the global rankings.
In a surprising twist at the WTA Australian Open final, Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player and two-time defending champion, was dethroned by an inspired Madison Keys. The American shocked the tennis world with a determined performance, claiming victory in a thrilling three-set match.
Keys Conquers the Best
In a two-and-a-half-hour battle at Melbourne Park, Keys emerged triumphant with a 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 scoreline, crowning herself the champion of the Australian Open and earning her first Grand Slam title at the age of 29. This victory made Keys the oldest woman to win a major since Flavia Pennetta claimed the 2015 US Open at 33.
Keys’ achievement was even more remarkable considering her path to the trophy. Before defeating Sabalenka in the final, she took down Iga Swiatek, the world’s No. 2 player, in the semifinals. With this feat, Keys became the first woman to beat the top two players in the world during an Australian Open since Serena Williams accomplished the same feat in 2005.
A Leap in the Rankings
The victory catapulted Keys to 14th in the WTA rankings, a six-spot jump from her previous position at No. 20 at the tournament’s start.
This win marks a dream start to the year for Keys, who had previously lost her only other Grand Slam final at the 2017 US Open, where she was defeated by compatriot Sloane Stephens.
