Madison Keys won her first Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open, defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the final.
She took home $2.2 million in prize money and 2000 WTA ranking points, rising to No. 6 in the rankings.
What happened at the Australian Open?
Madison Keys defeated Sabalenka in three sets, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5, on January 26, 2025.
She also defeated world No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals and No. 6 Elena Rybakina in the Round of 16.
How did Madison Keys prepare for the tournament?
Keys made important adjustments to her game and practice regimens in December 2024, using her two-week break to fine-tune her skills.
She focused on repetition and practice, which she believes helped her win the title.
Madison Keys said she was able to play each round and each player as they came, without getting distracted by the tough opponents ahead.
What's next for Madison Keys?
Madison Keys is currently awaiting her first round of play at the 2025 US Open, where she will look to continue her upward trajectory.
She has seen a resurgence in her tennis career over the past few years, with significant victories and deep runs in major tournaments.
Madison Keys won her second singles title at the Australian Open, and her first title in over two years was at Adelaide in 2022.
She also made a semifinal appearance at the Australian Open in 2022, her best Grand Slam showing since 2018.
Madison Keys faced Sabalenka again in the final at Indian Wells on March 16, 2025, but lost.
She said that facing accomplished players like Sabalenka and Swiatek can help improve one's game.
Madison Keys has played against tough opponents, including Serena Williams, who she says was the most difficult match she's ever played.
She last played Williams in 2016, and said it was difficult because Williams always had a response that was next-level.
Madison Keys has won titles in Eastbourne and Strasbourg, and has made solid quarterfinal and semifinal appearances at other WTA events.
Her career has certainly hit its high point with her big win at the Australian Open.
Madison Keys is currently ranked as a WTA singles player at No. 6, and will look to continue her success in the upcoming tournaments.