Madison Keys has finally become a Grand Slam champion, having beaten Aryna Sabalenka to win the Australian Open.
Sabalenka said she couldn’t do much against Keys, such was the superb display of the 29-year-old American.
WTA number 14 Keys enjoyed a phenomenal Australian Open, culminating in a 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 win over world number one Sabalenka.
Mats Wilander was worried Keys lost her timing before the deciding set, but she eventually won on Rod Laver Arena after two hours and two minutes.
Her maiden Grand Slam title comes eight years after her first final at the US Open in 2017, where Keys lost to compatriot Sloane Stephens.
Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek congratulate Madison Keys on Australian Open title
Unsurprisingly, the messages of congratulations have been endless for the new champion in Melbourne, with semi-finalists Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek both involved.
“Congratulations to Madison for her maiden Slam,” Djokovic wrote on his Instagram story. “And Aryna for another great Slam.”
Swiatek meanwhile tagged Keys on her Instagram story, writing: “What an amazing and inspiring performance, congratulations.”
Emma Navarro and Victoria Azarenka react as Madison Keys beats Aryna Sabalenka in Australian Open final
A two-time defending champion at the Australian Open, top seed Sabalenka was the favourite going into the tournament, never mind the final.
But Keys produced masterclass after masterclass to reach the last two, and has rightfully earned the praise from many of her fellow professionals.
READ MORE: Aryna Salabenka sends message on social media after losing the Australian Open final to Madison Keys
The American star has since taken to social media to celebrate the title, simply writing on Instagram: “I did it.”
Her compatriots Emma Navarro and Coco Gauff were quick to comment, with the former saying “no kidding!” and the latter saying “yes you did!!!”
Further messages arrived on X, with their fellow WTA star Victoria Azarenka writing: “What a ride Madison Keys. Grand Slam champ baby! Enjoy it to the fullest.”
ATP ace Denis Shapovalov meanwhile wrote on X: “Huge congrats Madison Keys!!! very well deserved!! And also side congrats to coach Bjorn Fratangelo. Very happy for you guys!!”
And tennis icon Petra Kvitova has also gotten in on the act, tagging Keys on X with the message: “Congratulations to you for your big win! You deserve it so much! Happy for you, enjoy it.”
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