Madison Keys’ resurgent run at the 2025 Australian Open shows no signs of slowing down. The American fought back from a set down to defeat 27th seed Elina Svitolina 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 and advance to her third Australian Open semifinal.
After an injury-plagued 2024 season, Keys has rediscovered her top form in Melbourne. The 19th seed extended her winning streak to 10 matches, having recently claimed the Adelaide title. Her path to the semis has included impressive wins over six top-20 opponents.
To be here, 10 years later in the semi-finals again, I’m really proud of myself and really excited to play another semi-final in Melbourne.
– Madison Keys
Adapting Her Game Plan
Svitolina came out firing, using her exceptional court coverage and pinpoint groundstrokes to take the first set. But Keys, one of the most powerful ball-strikers in the women’s game, adjusted her tactics midway through the match.
- Keys began playing more aggressively, taking the ball early and finishing points at the net
- She served with more precision, hitting her spots to set up her forehand
- The American took control of the baseline rallies with penetrating shots off both wings
Keys hit a staggering 49 winners compared to just 22 unforced errors, a remarkable ratio given the quick conditions in Melbourne. Her willingness to take risks and impose her game ultimately wore down the defensive-minded Svitolina.
A Decade of Growth
This marks Keys’ seventh grand slam semifinal overall and her third trip to the Australian Open’s final four. She burst onto the scene as a teenager, reaching her first major semi in Melbourne back in 2015.
I think I play a little bit smarter, for sure. Probably a little bit less fearless though.
– Madison Keys on her evolution as a player
While the raw power remains, Keys has refined her game over the years. She’s developed more variety in her shot selection and a better understanding of how to construct points. That maturity was on full display against Svitolina.
An All-American Affair
Standing between Keys and a spot in the Australian Open final will be either world No. 2 Iga Swiatek or rising American star Emma Navarro. Keys expressed excitement about the success of her compatriots in Melbourne:
I’m really excited to go and get to watch Emma and Ben [Shelton] later today… It’s a really great group of Americans.
– Madison Keys
No matter the outcome, this Australian Open has signaled a resurgence for Keys. Armed with renewed confidence and an aggressive mindset, she looks poised to contend for the biggest titles in the sport once again. An elusive first grand slam crown could be within reach.
