Defending champion Madison Keys navigated a perilous opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday, securing a hard-fought 7-6(6), 6-1 victory against Ukrainian qualifier Oleksandra Oliynykova. The American’s title defense commenced under significant duress at Rod Laver Arena, where she found herself trailing 0-4 in the first set due to uncharacteristic double faults and early nerves.
Facing a Grand Slam debutante whose deep, looping shots created considerable chaos, Keys was forced to erase two set points in a tense tiebreak before clinching the opener. The relief was palpable as she unleashed a triumphant roar, subsequently dominating the second set with composed authority. The win sets up an all-American second-round clash against Ashlyn Krueger.
In post-match comments, Keys acknowledged the emotional weight of returning as defending champion. ‘I spoke to Lindsay Davenport the other day, and she reminded me that not many people get to go out there and defend a Grand Slam,’ Keys revealed. ‘So I’m just trying to embrace it and enjoy it.’
Other American contenders enjoyed smoother progress. Eighth seed Ben Shelton, last year’s semifinalist, dispatched France’s Ugo Humbert 6-3, 7-6(2), 7-6(5) in a battle of left-handers. Ethan Quinn also advanced comfortably, defeating 23rd seed Tallon Griekspoor in straight sets.
The day featured notable milestones and upsets. Australian wildcard Taylah Preston secured her maiden Grand Slam victory against China’s Zhang Shuai, while 22nd seed Leylah Fernandez suffered a surprise exit against Indonesia’s Janice Tjen, who recorded her nation’s first Australian Open match win in 28 years.
Evening session highlights featured world number two Jannik Sinner’s opening match against Hugo Gaston, followed by two-time champion Naomi Osaka’s highly anticipated return to Rod Laver Arena against Antonia Ruzic.