The highly anticipated showdown between Aryna Sabalenka and Madison Keys is underway in the 2025 Australian Open women’s final.
Both players are battling it out on the hard courts of Rod Laver Arena, and we’re bringing you live updates throughout the match.
Keys Claims the First Set
Madison Keys has made an impressive start, taking the first set 6-3.
Sabalenka’s serve has been a concern, with some struggles early in the match.
Commentary from Jelena Dokic suggests that Sabalenka is overcompensating for her service woes, which led to Keys taking advantage with a solid backhand down the line.
Former Australian tennis star Alicia Molik added that Keys’ slice backhand has caused Sabalenka trouble, leaving the world number one on the back foot.
The Stats Show Keys in Control
The numbers tell the story of the first set: Keys leads in aces (2-0), first serve percentage, and points won on both first and second serves.
With 10 winners to Sabalenka’s four, Keys’ aggressive play has been evident.
However, unforced errors have been relatively close, with Sabalenka at 12 and Keys at 10.
Sabalenka Finds a Break, But Struggles Continue
Sabalenka’s frustration is starting to show.
A mishit during a crucial game went far past the baseline, and she appeared visibly upset.
However, Keys also had a rare mishap, hitting a simple netted shot, allowing Sabalenka to break back and trail 5-3. But the Belarusian’s frustrations persisted as she struggled with double faults and easy shots into the net.
Keys, despite the errors, held firm and was poised to serve for the first set at 5-2.
Keys’ Momentum Continues
Keys continued her dominance, holding her serve to love and extending her lead to 5-1.
A stunning drop shot winner had the crowd roaring, leaving Sabalenka visibly surprised by the American’s performance.
Sabalenka then suffered another break, falling 4-1, as she continued to struggle with service issues.
Keys was playing smart and aggressive tennis, showing no signs of fatigue from her semifinal match.
Sabalenka on the Back Foot
Sabalenka’s game was off, with double faults creeping into her service games and ground strokes sailing long.
Keys capitalized on every mistake, moving Sabalenka around the court effortlessly.
The crowd began to get behind the underdog, and Sabalenka found herself in trouble.
Yet, Sabalenka managed to hold for a brief respite.
The Trophy Arrival and Interesting Details
As the match progressed, the atmosphere in Melbourne Park became electric.
The Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup arrived on court with none other than Australian tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley, along with rugby icon Dan Carter.
Interestingly, the trophy traveled in a Louis Vuitton case, a result of a recent partnership with the luxury brand.
Carter, an ambassador for Louis Vuitton, was on hand to add some star power to the event.
Sabalenka and Keys’ Path to the Final
Both players have had impressive runs to the final, but they’ve reached this stage with different challenges.
Sabalenka has been in top form, defending her 2023 and 2024 titles.
Keys, on the other hand, has had a strong but unpredictable journey, overcoming a tough semifinal battle against Iga Swiatek.
Sabalenka’s Road to Three Titles in a Row
Sabalenka is aiming to become the first player to win three consecutive Australian Open titles in recent years.
The last to achieve such a feat was Martina Hingis, who dominated from 1997 to 1999.
Other legends who have won three in a row include Monica Seles, Steffi Graf, and Margaret Court.
What’s at Stake: Prize Money and Glory
The winner of tonight’s match will walk away with a substantial reward.
The 2025 Australian Open prize pool has risen to $96.5 million, with the champion set to earn $3.5 million.
The runner-up will also secure a generous $1.9 million for their efforts.
Beyond the financial rewards, both players are chasing the ultimate glory in tennis.
Keys’ Game-Changing Equipment Switch
One of the most talked-about stories leading into the final is Madison Keys’ equipment change.
At the recommendation of her coach and husband Bjorn Fratangelo, Keys switched from Wilson to Yonex ahead of the 2025 season.
The move has paid off, with Keys currently undefeated this year, adding the Adelaide International title to her success at Melbourne Park.
The change in racquet seems to have made all the difference, allowing her to hit with greater precision and power.
Behind the Scenes: Celebrities and Legends in the Stands
As always, the Australian Open attracts a star-studded crowd, and tonight’s final is no different.
Among the celebrity spectators are Aussie cricket legend David Boon, known for his storied career and a memorable beer-drinking flight to London.
Action movie star Jackie Chan was also spotted, chatting with Lleyton Hewitt before the match began.
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