Keys triumphs over Sabalenka to secure maiden Grand Slam victory

Madison Keys achieved a career milestone by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping three-set Australian Open final on Saturday night in Melbourne, securing her first Grand Slam title.

Keys prevailed 6-3, 2-6, 7-5, dethroning Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, in an unforgettable encounter.

Entering as the underdog, Keys stunned both fans and bookmakers with her fearless approach. She raced to a commanding 5-1 lead in the first set, displaying sharp and aggressive shot-making that left Sabalenka struggling to respond.

Although Sabalenka found her rhythm to claim the second set, Keys maintained composure and resilience in the decider, breaking the Belarusian’s serve at 5-6 to clinch the match and her maiden Grand Slam trophy.

The victory marked redemption for Keys, whose previous Grand Slam final appearance eight years ago ended in a one-sided loss.

This time, her unrelenting aggression and ability to handle pressure proved decisive, cementing her place as a contender in women’s tennis.

For Sabalenka, the loss was a heartbreaking end to her quest for a historic third consecutive Australian Open title, a feat not achieved since Martina Hingis in 1999.

Despite her disappointment, she remains the world No.1 and a strong favourite for the remaining Grand Slam tournaments this year.

The tennis betting landscape shifted significantly following the match. Keys’ odds for future Grand Slam events have shortened dramatically, with her priced at +1400 to win the US Open and in contention at Wimbledo and the French Open.

Meanwhile, Sabalenka remains a frontrunner for major titles in 2025, underlining her continued dominance in the sport despite the setback in Melbourne.

With Keys’ breakthrough victory and Sabalenka’s determination to bounce back, the women’s tennis landscape promises thrilling rivalries and high-stakes encounters in the months ahead.

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