In a thrilling match at the Australian Open, Madison Keys showcased her impressive return game, defeating reigning Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, to secure her spot in the quarterfinals. Keys, who has reached the Australian Open semifinals previously in 2015 and 2023, delivered a stellar performance that was marked by her powerful returning skills. After the match, she stated, “I think my return game definitely did the talking today. I really made her uncomfortable throughout the match.” The victory prompted comparisons to her previous great performances at this Grand Slam tournament as she now turns her focus to the upcoming quarterfinal clash against Elina Svitolina. Keys has been in excellent form, having reached the finals in 2020 and 2023. In her match against Rybakina, she utilized a combination of aggressive baseline play and effective changes in pace, which kept her opponent guessing. Following her victory, Rybakina acknowledged Keys’ performance, saying, “She played really well. I struggled to find my rhythm, and she took advantage of that.” With this win, Keys aims to reclaim her place among the elite of women’s tennis and pursue her first Grand Slam title in Melbourne.
Madison Keys Defeats Elena Rybakina to Advance to Australian Open Quarterfinals
