Keys upsets 2-time champion Sabalenka in Australian Open final

Madison Keys made history at the Australian Open by upsetting two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final match. The American player, ranked 14th and seeded 19th, claimed her first Grand Slam title at the age of 29, defeating the top-ranked Sabalenka in a hard-fought battle that went to three sets.

This victory over Sabalenka, coupled with her semifinal win over No. 2 seed Iga Swiatek, solidified Keys’ place in the record books as the first woman since Serena Williams in 2005 to defeat the WTA’s top two players at Melbourne Park. It was a momentous occasion for Keys, who was playing in her second major final after finishing as the runner-up at the 2017 U.S. Open.

Sabalenka, who was aiming for her third consecutive Australian Open title and fourth major title overall, was unable to overcome Keys’ determined play. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Keys eventually emerging victorious in a tight third set, clinching the title and celebrating with her team.

The men’s final was set to take place the following day, with defending champion Jannik Sinner facing off against Alexander Zverev. Sinner, seeded No. 1, had advanced to the final by defeating American Ben Shelton in the semifinals, while Zverev progressed when Novak Djokovic was forced to retire due to injury.

Keys’ triumph at the Australian Open made her the oldest woman to win her first major title since Flavia Pennetta in 2015. With 46 Grand Slam appearances before securing a trophy, Keys’ journey to success was a testament to her perseverance and determination.

Throughout the final match, Keys showcased her powerful baseline game and exceptional court coverage, out-hitting Sabalenka and outmaneuvering her opponent with precision shots. Despite a strong comeback from Sabalenka in the second set, Keys maintained her composure and ultimately sealed the victory with a decisive forehand winner in the final game.

The match was a display of skill, resilience, and passion from both players, with Keys ultimately emerging as the deserving champion. Her victory marked a significant milestone in her career and solidified her place among the elite players in women’s tennis.