MELBOURNE, Australia — Madison Keys is set for another shot at the Australian Open title after overcoming a rocky start against Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals. Keys rallied from a first-set deficit to win 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, marking her third semifinal appearance at this prestigious event. The 29-year-old American is currently on a 10-match winning streak, having recently claimed a title in Adelaide.

Facing the No. 28 seed Svitolina, a competitor returning to the quarterfinal stage for the third time, Keys displayed resilience and strategy to turn the match in her favor after initially trailing. As described in AP News, Keys adjusted her playing style, moving to the net with greater frequency and reducing her errors, which led to her winning 23 of 26 points at the net and hitting an impressive 49 winners.

Keys' journey to the semifinals included victories over top-10 players, including the No. 10 seed Danielle Collins and sixth-seeded Elena Rybakina, affirming her growing confidence in the tournament. After her match against Svitolina, Keys expressed pride in reaching this stage once again, indicating a more refined approach in her game compared to her earlier years at the tournament.

“I think I play a little bit smarter for sure ... probably a little bit less fearless,” said Keys when reflecting on her decade-long journey at the Australian Open. Her previous semifinal appearances ended in defeats against Serena Williams in 2015 and Ash Barty in 2022.

Looking ahead, she awaits the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Iga Swiatek and Emma Navarro, with semifinals scheduled for January 23 at the iconic Rod Laver Arena. The 2025 Australian Open has seen notable upsets, including the early exit of last year’s champion and top American Coco Gauff, leaving a significant opportunity for Keys to capture her first Grand Slam title.

For additional details on this thrilling contest, visit USA Today.