Madison Keys delivered a stunning comeback, overcoming a set deficit to defeat Iga Swiatek and secure her place in the Australian Open final for the first time. The American tennis star will face two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, who aims to achieve a historic threepeat. Sabalenka's journey to the final included a commanding victory over Paula Badosa, showcasing both challenges and brilliance on the court.
In a thrilling semifinal match, Keys battled fiercely against the world number two, Swiatek, eventually triumphing with a 5-7, 6-1, 7-6 victory after a nail-biting final-set tiebreak. Her perseverance and determination allowed her to claim more games against Swiatek than the Polish player had conceded in her previous five matches combined at Melbourne Park.
“I’m still trying to catch up to everything that’s happening. I’m in the finals. Woo-hoo,” – Madison Keys
“That match was just such a high level … I felt like I was fighting to stay in it … To be able to be standing here in the finals is absolutely amazing and I’m glad that I can be here on Saturday.” – Madison Keys
Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka's path to the final was not without its hurdles. She trailed Paula Badosa 2-0 in the opening set, marred by unforced errors. However, Sabalenka quickly regained her composure, utilizing her powerful forehand to dismantle Badosa's defense and end the Spaniard's impressive run in her first major semifinal.
“With Aryna, it’s more like winners everywhere,” – Paula Badosa
“Sometimes you’re like, I don’t know, I’m just walking around the court because I feel like she’s playing a PlayStation. I don’t have time even to think.” – Paula Badosa
Sabalenka swept aside Badosa in straight sets on Thursday, demonstrating her resilience and skill on the court. Despite their friendship off the court, Badosa might need some time before reconnecting with Sabalenka following the defeat.
“She’ll probably hate me for a day or two and then we can be friends again and go out shopping. I promise we’ll do that and I’ll pay for whatever she wants,” – Paula Badosa
Sabalenka's victory sets the stage for her bid to become the first woman since Martina Hingis to complete a threepeat at the Australian Open, a feat last accomplished from 1997 to 1999. The last woman to reach three consecutive finals at the year's first Grand Slam was Serena Williams, who achieved this remarkable feat from 2015 to 2017.
Paula Badosa, reflecting on Sabalenka's formidable performance, jokingly referred to it as "PlayStation tennis," acknowledging the Belarusian's extraordinary skill level.
“If she plays like this,” Badosa said about Sabalenka, “I mean, we can already give her the trophy.” – Paula Badosa
