Madison Keys made headlines by winning her first major title at the 2025 Australian Open. She triumphed over World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling match that lasted two hours and two minutes. After losing the second set, Keys rallied to secure the final set 7-5, showcasing her skill with a stunning cross-court shot to clinch the victory. This win not only marked a personal achievement for Keys but also added her name to the players’ walk at Rod Laver Arena for future generations to admire.

This victory is particularly significant as Keys became the first woman since Serena Williams to defeat both the No. 1 and No. 2 players on tour to win a major title. The former American pro-Andy Roddick expressed his excitement about this glorious moment for American tennis. He reflected on the emotions he felt while watching his fellow Americans excel on the court. While Madison captured the title, Coco Gauff reached the quarterfinals after an impressive 13-match winning streak. Other American players like Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro are also climbing the rankings, with Pegula in the top 10 and Madison now ranked No. 14.

Roddick noted, “I think people push each other, let’s give credit to the men too. Because the women are fantastic, we know that they have the upside to win majors, it’s proven but the men also.” He highlighted how American men’s tennis is finally gaining momentum, with players like Ben Shelton making their Grand Slam appearances and Taylor Fritz reaching his first finals at the 2024 US Open. Frances Tiafoe has made two semifinal appearances in recent years, while Tommy Paul reached his first final at the Australian Open in 2023.

Roddick contrasted this current American success with his own era, saying, “That wasn’t happening during my generation. You know, you weren’t having guys pop off into the semis regularly, you know? I love James and Mar they’re brothers to me but they didn’t make a semi.”

The ex-pro had a stellar career, reaching No. 1 in the ATP rankings for 13 weeks and winning 32 singles titles before retiring in 2012. He captured the US Open in 2003 and reached four more Grand Slam finals, all against the legendary Roger Federer. Roddick was supported by friends like James Blake and Mardy Fish, who also made waves in American tennis, with Fish peaking at No. 7.

He concluded, “This is a great moment and I hope we can appreciate it. And for f**** sake, I hope we can not talk about what we’re not doing in American Tennis.” One notable difference today is the camaraderie among American players. They openly support each other during matches, which Keys appreciates deeply. This supportive atmosphere may be contributing to their recent successes on the court.

Madison Keys hails the American players’ support that pushes her

After 46 Grand Slam main draw appearances, Madison Keys finally triumphed at the 2025 Australian Open, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling match. The crowd went wild as she sealed her victory with a stunning cross-court shot, winning 6-3, 2-6, 7-5. What a moment for Madison and all her supporters who have cheered her on through this incredible journey!

In her post-match press conference, Keys expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her career: “I have really grown up on the tour and I’ve really grown up with some other amazing people on this tour and some of my closest friends also play so I think we all are very good at cheering each other on and their wins feel like our wins.”

Her friends from the tennis community celebrated her success on social media. Ben Shelton shared his excitement with several Instagram stories, exclaiming, “Wowwww Champ!!!” Sloane Stephens, who previously defeated her at the 2023 US Open finals proudly declared, “My champion 👑” and added, “It was never if, just when. Your moment Madi! So incredibly proud and happy for you @madisonkeys ❤🥹.” Coco Gauff chimed in with enthusiasm, writing, “so deserveddddd!!”

Keys reflected on her victory, saying, “So to be in the position of actually winning and them getting to be the cheerleaders. It feels really nice just because after all these years, watching all of my friends do so well has always felt like a win for me.” With rising stars like Shelton reaching the semifinals and Gauff making it to the quarterfinals, it seems a new era for American tennis is dawning. The 2025 season looks promising for this talented roster.