After a triumphant Australian Open win and an ensuing vacation, Madison Keys is back in the saddle, gearing up for the upcoming challenge at Indian Wells. The pivotal transition from relaxation to rigorous training is apparent in Keys’ latest Instagram story, where she candidly shares her journey from holiday mode to hardcore preparation.
Keys’ post-victory hiatus was highlighted by an Instagram story where she humorously quizzed her followers: “How is your vacation going?” To answer her own question, she shared footage of herself diligently training, a clear sign that her vacation was quickly transforming into a preparation period for the BNP Paribas Open. From executing powerful shots to engaging in intense workout sessions, Keys showcased her commitment to regaining her tournament-ready form.
Adding a touch of personalization to her training gear, Keys also unveiled her newly customized kitbag. The Yonex bag, now bearing her name as the Australian Open champion, pays homage to her memorable victory at the Rod Laver Arena last month. An additional nod to her Australian triumph, a kangaroo logo, is also visible on the side of her bag.
However, Keys’ journey back to the court was not as smooth as she had hoped. Following her landmark Australian Open victory, she was slated to participate in the Middle East swing in February. Regrettably, a leg injury forced her to withdraw from the Qatar Open and the Dubai Tennis Championships. Nonetheless, she is now ready to make her comeback at the Indian Wells in March.
Last year’s performance at the BNP Paribas Open was not up to her usual standards, failing to progress beyond the second round due to a defeat by Kazakhstan’s Yulia Putintseva. This year, however, Keys is determined to rewrite her narrative at the tournament.
While her journey post-Australian Open has had its hiccups, it’s worth noting that her Melbourne triumph has catapulted her to unprecedented heights in the WTA rankings. Keys’ ascent in the rankings started with her victory at the Adelaide International earlier this season, where she defeated fellow American Jessica Pegula.
The Melbourne run only added to her momentum. On her way to her first major trophy, Keys triumphed over compatriot Danielle Collins, Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina, and former World No.1, Iga Swiatek, before defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the championship. Following the Australian Open, Keys rose to the 5th spot in the WTA rankings – her career-best till date.
Moreover, Keys is only the 20th American player to reach the top 5 since the official rankings were introduced in 1975. Adding to this landmark achievement is the fact that Keys shares the top 5 spots with fellow Americans Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula, ranked 3rd and 4th, respectively. This marks the first time since 2003 that three American women have occupied the top 5 rankings – a feat last achieved by tennis greats Serena Williams, Lindsay Davenport, and Jennifer Capriati.
As Keys gears up for the Sunshine Double, the tennis world waits with bated breath to see if she can replicate her Australian Open success. As they say, only time will tell.
