In an intense showdown at the Madrid Open, Madison Keys emerged victorious against Coco Gauff, with a final scoreline of 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-4 after a grueling two and a half hours on the court.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Keys, who, in her tenth appearance at the WTA 1000 event, clinched her first-ever quarter-final berth. The 29-year-old, ranked 20th in the world, displayed her experience, securing her third win over the 20-year-old Gauff, albeit their first encounter on red clay.
With 29 winners to her name, Keys showcased her prowess, outshining Gauff’s 26 winners in a match characterized by 14 breaks of serve. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, struggled with her serve, committing 13 double faults, including two crucial ones in the final game. Reflecting on her hard-fought victory, Keys emphasized the importance of composure and seizing opportunities when they arise.
Looking ahead, Keys sets her sights on the quarter-final clash against Ons Jabeur, the 2022 Madrid champion. Despite a challenging draw, which includes top seed Iga Swiatek and Beatriz Haddad Maia, Keys remains determined to capitalize on her newfound momentum. Having endured six consecutive losses in Madrid before this tournament, Keys expressed pride in her quarter-final breakthrough, particularly after overcoming injury setbacks. This achievement signifies a turning point in her Madrid campaign, fueling her confidence as she progresses further in the tournament.
