Keys once again finding “another gear” at a Grand Slam

Madison Keys reached the semi-finals of the US Open for the third time in her career on Wednesday night. It continues a history of success for her at the Grand Slam level.

Madison Keys in Canada in 2023 (Zuma/Panoramic)

Ricky Dimon

September 7, 2023

Madison Keys has never been confused with being the most consistent player on the WTA Tour. Her up-and-down nature is part of the reason why she has never climbed higher than No 7 in the rankings despite being one of the hardest hitters and — when she is on — one of the cleanest ball-strikers in the game.

At Grand Slams, however, Keys has generally been able to find her best form.

The 2023 US Open has been no exception. Keys is through to the semi-finals in New York after beating Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-4 on Wednesday night. It marks the American’s third trip to the semis of this event, having previously finished runner-up in 2017 prior to a semi-final showing one year later.

Her slam success isn’t limited to the one in front of the home crowd, either. Following her quarter-final run at Wimbledon earlier this summer, Keys has reached at least the quarters of every major at least twice in her career. That includes two semi-final performances at the Australian Open and one semi-final result at Roland-Garros.

“I have just kind of peaked at the right time, I guess”, says Keys

“I think that it’s obviously I just kind of find another gear when it comes to slams,” Keys said after beating Vondrousova. “I think part of it is that I put a little bit more pressure on myself, which is a good thing and also a bad thing sometimes.

“I have just kind of peaked at the right time, I guess. I haven’t had too many disappointing exits at slams. I have had a handful, obviously, but I feel like when it comes to slams I’m just able to kind of find another gear even if I haven’t been playing well.”

I love that none of you talk about me anymore.
Madison Keys

The fact that Keys is ranked relatively low compared to compatriots like Coco Gauff — who is also in the US Open semis — and Jessica Pegula is why she flies somewhat under the radar at majors despite her history of success on tennis’ biggest stages.

“Honestly, it’s been great,” Keys joked about the relative lack of media coverage. “I love that none of you talk about me anymore. I don’t have press requests. It’s a lot off of my plate. I kind of just come in and leave and no complaints.

“So (if) you guys want to keep not talking about me, (I’m) more than happy.”

But if the 28-year-old upsets Aryna Sabalenka on Thursday night and books a spot in a second US Open final, you know there’s going to be a lot of talk.