Madison Keys’ coach says there’s one thing he really wants her to copy from Aryna Sabalenka’s game in the coming months
Madison Keys Stuns Aryna Sabalenka to Claim First Grand Slam Title
Madison Keys ended Aryna Sabalenka’s 20-match winning streak at the Australian Open, securing her maiden Grand Slam title in a career-defining performance. Overcoming past heartbreak against the world No. 1, Keys delivered a stunning display to clinch the biggest victory of her career.
Following the match, Sabalenka drew comparisons between Keys and Serena Williams, praising the new champion’s powerful shot-making after she fired 29 winners in the final. Among the many congratulating Keys on her historic triumph were fellow American stars Serena Williams and Coco Gauff.
Fratangelo’s Vision: What Keys Can Learn from Sabalenka
Despite Keys’ dominant performance, her coach—and husband—Bjorn Fratangelo believes she can take inspiration from Sabalenka’s tactical play. Fratangelo, who began coaching Keys in Spring 2023, discussed how elements of Sabalenka’s game could enhance Keys’ approach.
Speaking on Andy Roddick’s podcast, Fratangelo admitted:
“What Sabalenka did to Madi in the second set is what I would love to see Madi do.”
One key area he emphasized was incorporating drop shots into her game, particularly to exploit opponents who are pushed deep behind the baseline:
“She gets girls so far back… You could hit a dropper to the service line, and there is no way they are going to get there.”
While Keys successfully executed a crucial drop shot in the final, Fratangelo hopes this will become a consistent weapon in her arsenal.
Sabalenka’s Unexpected Tactics in the Final
After Keys dominated the first set 6-3, Fratangelo anticipated Sabalenka to increase her intensity in the second. However, he was surprised by the shift in strategy:
“I thought she’d try to overpower Madi, but instead, she started throwing in backhand slices and looping balls high to Madi’s backhand—something she doesn’t like.”
Sabalenka’s approach momentarily turned the match in her favor, but a few misfired drop shots in the third set saw her abandon the tactic. This allowed Keys to regain control, ultimately securing the hard-fought victory.
A Career-Defining Moment for Madison Keys
At 29 years old, Keys has finally broken through to win a Grand Slam title, a moment that cements her legacy in the sport. With a newfound confidence and tactical awareness, could this be the start of an even greater chapter in her career?
