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Sabalenka smashes racquet in on-court meltdown after Australian Open final defeat, walks off before closing ceremony
28 days ago | 5 Views
Madison Keys exhibited a remarkable performance as she triumphed over Aryna Sabalenka in the women's singles final of the ongoing Australian Open 2025, held in Melbourne on Saturday. The American, competing in her second Grand Slam final, commenced the match with great intensity, easily claiming the first set with a score of 6-3. However, Sabalenka responded by taking the second set 6-2, thereby necessitating a decisive third set.
The final set proved to be a thrilling contest, culminating in Keys' victory with a scoreline of 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 at the Rod Laver Arena. Following her victory, Keys was overwhelmed with joy and moved to tears as she received congratulations from her coaching team, which included her husband.
Aryna Sabalenka shellshocked
Defending champion Sabalenka was taken aback as she was unable to equal Martina Hingis’ record of three consecutive Australian Open titles. Rather than staying on the court to commend Keys, a visibly disappointed Sabalenka chose to sit in her chair with a towel draped over her head and subsequently departed before the closing ceremony. She did not extend her congratulations to Keys and also broke her racquet. However, the World No. 1 did return for the ceremony, accepted her runners-up trophy, and acknowledged Keys with respect.
After her defeat in the US Open final, the Belarusian exhibited a similar reaction, as she was observed breaking her racquet in the backstage area.
During the closing ceremony, Sabalenka addressed her coaching staff with a light-hearted remark. “Should I say anything to my team? As always, that's your fault, guys. I don't want to see you for the next week. I hate you. No, thank you so much for everything you do for me and blah blah blah. I believe we gave our best effort; however, Madison played exceptionally well. Regardless, I love you all, even though we lost,” she expressed.
In contrast, Keys remarked, “I have desired this for such a long time, and has reached a grand slam final, it did not turn out in my favour. I was uncertain if I would have the opportunity to return to this position and contend for a trophy again, but my team supported me throughout the journey, so thank you immensely. They had faith in me when I struggled to believe in myself and provided assistance at every turn. Last year was incredibly challenging due to significant injuries, and I was unsure if I could achieve this again. To be here with this trophy, alongside my husband, who appears somewhat dazed and confused over there, is truly special. I love you all dearly and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.”
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