Madison Keys weeps as she equals Serena Williams record that stood for 20 years

Madison Keys weeps as she equals Serena Williams record that stood for 20 years

Hassan Abdulsalam 07:07 - 26.01.2025

Keys needed 46 Grand Slam appearances to claim her first major to equal Serena Williams record.

Madison Keys has achieved a career milestone by winning her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.

The 29-year-old defeated the defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in a thrilling final.  

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After a straightforward first-set win, Keys faltered in the second, losing 6-2 to a resurgent Sabalenka.

Madison Keys

However, she rallied in the deciding set, ultimately winning 7-5 with a powerful forehand.

Emotional victory for Keys

Keys, who was visibly emotional after reaching the final, broke down in tears after securing the decisive break against Sabalenka.

The win marked a long-awaited breakthrough for Keys, who needed 46 Grand Slam appearances to claim her first major, the third-most in history behind Flavia Pennetta (49) and Marion Bartoli (47).

Historic moment for Keys

Keys made history, becoming the first woman since Serena Williams in 2005 to defeat World No. 1 and World No. 2 en route to the Australian Open title.

Madison Keys

Furthermore, she is the first woman since Svetlana Kuznetsova in 2009 (French Open) to achieve this feat at any Grand Slam.

Sabalenka's disappointment

Sabalenka was visibly distraught after the loss, having been on the cusp of becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to win three consecutive Australian Open titles.

She smashed her racket in frustration after the match. Despite her disappointment, Sabalenka offered gracious praise to Keys in her runner-up speech, acknowledging her opponent's exceptional tournament.  

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