Madison Keys secured her maiden Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open, defeating two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in a dramatic three-set final. The intense battle saw Keys etch her name into history, while a frustrated Sabalenka smashed her racquet in anger.
Madison Keys Triumphs Over Aryna Sabalenka to Win First Grand Slam at Australian Open 2025
In a thrilling showdown at Rod Laver Arena, American tennis star Madison Keys made history by defeating two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka to win her first-ever Grand Slam title at the Australian Open 2025. The electrifying final, held under the Melbourne lights, ended with a score of 6-3, 2-6, 7-5, marking an unforgettable moment in Keys’ career.
The 29-year-old showcased remarkable composure and resilience, defying expectations against the tournament’s top seed. With this victory, Keys became the first woman to defeat both the world’s top two players at a major tournament since Svetlana Kuznetsova at the 2009 French Open. She also achieved a feat last accomplished by Serena Williams at the Australian Open in 2005.
Keys’ Historic Win and Career Breakthrough
Keys’ journey to the title was nothing short of extraordinary. Coming into the final on a 12-match winning streak, she had already won the Adelaide International just weeks before the Australian Open. Her remarkable form and aggressive gameplay allowed her to take down some of the toughest competitors in the tournament, ultimately leading to her long-awaited Grand Slam breakthrough.
At 29, Keys joins an elite list of older first-time Grand Slam winners, standing alongside Flavia Pennetta (33), Ann Jones (30), and Francesca Schiavone (29). The American’s perseverance and determination have finally paid off, securing her place among the sport’s greats.
Sabalenka’s Frustration Boils Over
For Sabalenka, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. The Belarusian star had been aiming for a historic third consecutive Australian Open title, a feat not achieved since Martina Hingis in 1997-99. She entered the final riding a 20-match winning streak at Melbourne Park and had remained unbeaten in 2025 after securing the Brisbane title earlier in the year.
Despite her dominance, Sabalenka struggled to maintain momentum in the final set, allowing Keys to capitalize on crucial moments. Overcome with frustration, the world number two smashed her racquet on the court, an emotional response that quickly went viral online.
A Hard-Fought Final
The match saw both players display their best tennis, with momentum swinging back and forth. Keys started strong, taking the first set 6-3 with powerful groundstrokes and precise shot placement. However, Sabalenka roared back in the second set, breaking Keys twice to level the match at 1-1.
The deciding set was a tense affair, with both players battling through long rallies and high-pressure points. Ultimately, Keys’ mental toughness and aggressive shot-making helped her break Sabalenka at 6-5, allowing her to serve out the match and claim victory.
A Long-Awaited Achievement
This Australian Open marked Keys’ 46th Grand Slam appearance, making her one of the most persistent players in the sport. Only Flavia Pennetta (49) and Marion Bartoli (47) took more attempts before winning their first major title.
As she lifted the trophy in front of a roaring crowd, Keys expressed her joy and gratitude, reflecting on the years of dedication that led to this moment. Her victory signals a potential shift in women’s tennis, with a new Grand Slam champion ready to challenge the sport’s established elite.
Meanwhile, for Sabalenka, the loss will serve as motivation as she looks to rebound and continue her pursuit of further Grand Slam glory in the months ahead.