Madison Keys achieved a lifelong dream by claiming her first Grand Slam title with a stunning 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 victory over top seed Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open final on Saturday.
The 29-year-old American delivered a career-best performance in Melbourne, overcoming the defending champion in a gripping two-hour battle.
With this victory, Keys became the fourth-oldest first-time Grand Slam winner in the professional era, joining the ranks of Flavia Pennetta, Ann Jones, and Francesca Schiavone.
Sabalenka struggled early, surrendering a double break after a series of unforced errors, while Keys dominated with powerful groundstrokes to take the first set.
Though the top seed fought back in the second, Keys regained control in the decider, sealing the biggest win of her career with a series of blistering winners.
With this triumph, Keys ends Sabalenka’s hopes of a third consecutive Australian Open crown and etches her name in tennis history.
