Madison Keys won her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, defeating Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 6-3, 2-6, 7-5. At 29, Keys made history as the oldest woman to achieve her first major victory at Melbourne Park, a feat matched by only a few in the Open era. Overcome with emotion, she celebrated with her husband and coach, Bjorn Fratangelo, after years of struggles in pursuit of a slam victory. Sabalenka's frustrations were noted, particularly her racket-smashing outburst, though she later congratulated Keys on her victory.
In the Open era, only Flavia Pennetta, Ann Jones and Francesca Schiavone have won maiden grand slam titles later into their career than 29-year-old Keys, who covered her face with her hands in delight and disbelief after sending a final forehand win fizzing past Sabalenka.
Keys, who is the oldest woman to make her slam breakthrough at Melbourne Park, rushed over to her courtside coaching pod, where she sobbed in the arms of husband Bjorn Fratangelo, who has played a crucial role in her breakthrough having agreed to become her coach last year.
It's a shame she did that, I know that she is going for a third title and emotions are running high, but it takes something away from the moment for Keys.
Madison, wow what a tournament, you've been fighting really hard to the end.
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