Australian Open: Madison Keys Stuns Iga Swiatek to Reach Final
Madison Keys saved a match point on her way to winning a titanic semifinal battle, setting up an Australian Open final against two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.
Keys’ Comeback Victory
The 19th seed battled through a thrilling semifinal on a final-set tiebreak against the world No 2, winning 5-7, 6-1, 7-6(10/8). Keys, 29, fought back from a set down to shock Iga Swiatek, five-time Grand Slam champion, in a nail-biter that lasted 2 hours 35 minutes.
Historic Semifinal
This was the first time an Australian Open semifinal had been decided by a third-set 10-point tiebreak. Keys confessed she couldn’t recall much detail about the final set where she saved a match point.
“In the third set, it was just so up and down. I feel like I blacked out at some point,” Keys smiled. “Just to be able to stay in it and just keep fighting and then a 10-point tiebreaker for a dramatic finish.”
Sabalenka’s Dominant Win
Earlier, Sabalenka put her close friendship with Paula Badosa aside to stay on track for a 26-year first. The Belarusian world No 1 romped home 6-4, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena against 11th seed Badosa.
Final Preview
Keys predicted a slug-fest between two of the hardest ball-strikers in the women’s game in Saturday’s showpiece. “Definitely some big hitting. I think that is going to happen,” Keys said. “Not a lot of long points but she is obviously going for her third Aussie Open and I’m excited to get to play here.”
Sabalenka’s Pursuit of History
Sabalenka is closing on a third consecutive Melbourne crown – something that hasn’t happened this century. The last person to achieve the feat was Martina Hingis in 1999, and only four other women have completed the three-peat – Margaret Court, Evonne Goolagong, Steffi Graf, and Monica Seles. Court was in the stadium watching.
Post-Match Quotes
“Honestly, I don’t know. I’m so proud of myself. I’m proud of my team that we’re able to put ourselves in such a situation,” Sabalenka said of being on the cusp of a third Melbourne Park title. “It’s a privilege. If I’m able to put my name into history, it will mean a lot. It will mean the world to me.”
Badosa’s Remarkable Comeback
Despite losing, Badosa’s run to the last four capped a remarkable comeback for the Spaniard after a brutal back injury in 2023 had her considering quitting tennis. Instead, her Melbourne exploits will return her to the top 10 for the first time since October 2022. Keys will also return to the top 10.
Conclusion
The Australian Open has reached its final showdown, with Madison Keys set to face Aryna Sabalenka for the championship title. Keys’ thrilling comeback victory over Iga Swiatek has earned her a spot in the final, while Sabalenka’s dominant win over Paula Badosa has put her one step closer to achieving a historic three-peat.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of Sabalenka’s potential three-peat?
A: If Sabalenka wins the title, she will become the first woman to win three consecutive Australian Open titles this century.
Q: What was the most memorable moment of the semifinal matches?
A: Madison Keys’ comeback victory over Iga Swiatek, which included saving a match point, was the most dramatic moment of the semifinals.
Q: Who is the favorite to win the title?
A: Aryna Sabalenka is the top seed and defending champion, and she is expected to be the favorite to win the title.