MELBOURNE, Australia — Madison Keys said breaking through at the Australian Open for her first Grand Slam title “means the world” after she defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in three thrilling sets Saturday.
Keys, the 19th seed, was a big underdog coming into the clash with two-time reigning champion Sabalenka, but produced her best tennis to win in two hours and two minutes 6-3, 1-6, 7-5.
At 29, Keys becomes the second-oldest first-time women’s winner of the tournament after China’s Li Na broke through for her win in 2014 at 31.
The American started fast against Sabalenka, who struggled with her serve early. Two double faults helped gift Keys the opening game, and Keys held for 2-0 advantage.
While Sabalenka struggled on her serve, Keys flourished; through two service games she had landed all but one of her first serves to put pressure on the world No. 1. Sabalenka was unable to win her way back to level and was instead broken…
