Australian Open 2025 results: Madison Keys wins the ‘hard way’ to claim first Grand Slam title

The last time Madison Keys lost to Aryna Sabalenka at a Grand Slam, she could not hold back her tears.

In the 2023 US Open semi-finals, Keys was a set and a break up on Sabalenka. She served for the match at 5-4 in the second set.

But Sabalenka clawed her way back, winning the second and third sets on a tie-break to advance and leave Keys with a host of regrets.

“I think being able to take this and turn it into a positive is really possible,” a sobbing Keys said then

Now, 16 months later, possibility has turned into reality. The American has clinched a maiden major title at the Australian Open – beating double-defending champion Sabalenka in the final.

Her triumph comes just over seven years after she suffered a heavy defeat in the 2017 US Open final against Sloane Stephens.

But those struggles are behind her. Keys, who turns 30 next month, beat three top-10 players on her way to the Melbourne title, looking composed and clutch in the key moments.

BBC Sport takes a look at Keys’ journey to Grand Slam glory.