Defending Champion Keys Survives Mid-Set Dip to Reach Next Round at Australian Open

Summary: Madison Keys overcomes swings to advance at Melbourne Park in the 2026 Australian Open first round.

Madison Keys, the defending women’s singles champion at the 2026 Australian Open, had to dig deep on Thursday before closing out her opening match and booking a place in the second round of the year’s first Grand Slam.

Madison, known for her powerful groundstrokes and bold baseline play, faced a stiff task from her opponent, who really challenged her in the middle of the first set. At one point, Keys lost her flow and missed a few service games, allowing her opponent to build a lead and temporarily putting the reigning champion at a disadvantage.

But Keys steadied herself, tightened up her shot-making and found a second wind when it mattered most. She fought back to capture the first set in a dramatic finish, then carried that energy into the second, when she seized control with crisper groundstrokes and fewer unforced errors to win in straight sets.

The victory marked a test of resilience as much as skill. After her first-round wobble, Keys acknowledged post-match that she had to recalibrate quickly, especially when faced with pressure early on. “It wasn’t easy,” she said. “But I stayed focused, believed in my game, and I’m glad I could finish it off today.”

For a defending champion, these early rounds are often tricky. Opponents know they're up against a titleholder and frequently boost their game, especially during a Grand Slam when the stakes are highest.

With this win, Madison Keys will meet another opponent in the second round, where the challenge is anticipated to increase even more. Her next opponent will be a higher-ranked player who advanced earlier in the day, setting the stage for an intriguing early-round showdown.

Off the court, the atmosphere at Rod Laver Arena on Thursday was electric, with a lively crowd giving loud support to both players throughout. Fans have taken a particular interest in Keys’ title defence after her memorable run to the trophy last year, when she captured her first Grand Slam crown at Melbourne Park.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Keys to see whether she can carry the confidence from this hard-fought victory deeper into the draw. A defending champion’s path is never easy, but surviving a mid-set dip and coming out on top bodes well for her hopes in this year’s Australian Open.