Keys needed 46 Grand Slam appearances to claim her first major to equal Serena Williams record.
Madison Keys has achieved a career milestone by winning her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.
The 29-year-old defeated the defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in a thrilling final.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports
After a straightforward first-set win, Keys faltered in the second, losing 6-2 to a resurgent Sabalenka.
However, she rallied in the deciding set, ultimately winning 7-5 with a powerful forehand.
Emotional victory for Keys
Keys, who was visibly emotional after reaching the final, broke down in tears after securing the decisive break against Sabalenka.
The win marked a long-awaited breakthrough for Keys, who needed 46 Grand Slam appearances to claim her first major, the third-most in history behind Flavia Pennetta (49) and Marion Bartoli (47).
Historic moment for Keys
Keys’ victory is laden with historical as she is the first woman since Serena Williams in 2005 to defeat both the World No.1 and World No.2 en route to the Australian Open title.
Furthermore, she is the first woman since Svetlana Kuznetsova in 2009 (French Open) to achieve this feat at any Grand Slam.
Sabalenka’s disappointment
Sabalenka was visibly distraught after the loss, having been on the cusp of becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to win three consecutive Australian Open titles.
She smashed her racket in frustration after the match. Despite her disappointment, Sabalenka offered gracious praise to Keys in her runner-up speech, acknowledging her opponent’s exceptional tournament.
Comment and Earn N5.... comments are approved manually by admin.. Comment must be long and from the post.. short comments will not be approved