MIAMI – Following her monumental victory at the Australian Open, a lifelong dream realized, one might expect Madison Keys to take a break. However, relaxation is not in her plans.
“In many ways, winning the Australian Open has only fueled my ambition,” Keys shared with reporters before the Miami Open. “It was an incredible experience, and I definitely want to replicate that success.”
She added, “There`s also a newfound sense of freedom. Achieving what felt like a long-standing expectation has allowed me to enjoy tennis more. I`m excited to continue playing with this liberated mindset.”
Keys, currently seeded No. 5, started the year ranked 21st. Now, after a successful three months, she holds the top spot in the PIF Race to the WTA Finals, surpassing even World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and rising star Mirra Andreeva.
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After her recent victory over Elina Avanesyan, Keys boasts an impressive 19 wins out of 21 matches this season, including titles in Adelaide and Melbourne. Only Andreeva has surpassed her with 20 wins.
Next, Keys will face young talent Alexandra Eala, who caused an upset by defeating No. 25 seed Jelena Ostapenko.
Despite her current success, Keys faced a setback at Indian Wells after a six-week break post-Australian Open. After a dominant win against Belinda Bencic, marking her 16th consecutive match victory, she anticipated a rematch with Sabalenka, whom she had defeated in the Australian Open final.
However, Sabalenka turned the tables with a decisive victory, sending Keys back to Florida to regroup.
Reflecting on whether it`s easier to move on from a one-sided loss compared to a close defeat, Keys explained, “Close matches with missed opportunities can be emotionally tougher. The loss last week was simply frustrating because I couldn`t find my rhythm. But, looking at the bigger picture of the year, I`ve had many positive matches and overcome challenges. Sometimes, you just have an off day. By the time I was back practicing, I was focused and ready for Miami.”
Keys acknowledges the upcoming challenge against Eala, who has impressed with wins over Ostapenko and Katie Volynets. Eala could potentially become the first Filipino player in the Open Era to defeat a Grand Slam champion at the WTA level.
Keys, once a young prodigy herself, has been a professional player for over half her life. Her Australian Open victory, even to her, was a significant milestone.
“It’s a massive achievement, something I’m incredibly proud of,” Keys stated. “I’m focused on building on that success, maintaining momentum and confidence.”
Rupert Caldwell