Iga Swiatek’s hopes of reaching her first Australian Open final ended in heartbreak on Thursday as the 23-year-old fell to American Madison Keys in a dramatic 5-7, 6-1, 7-6(8) semi-final, MySportDab Reports.
Despite holding a match point at 6-5 in the third set, Swiatek faltered in the tiebreak, allowing the 29-year-old Keys to secure a hard-fought victory.
Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion, remained optimistic about her future. “I’m still young and have areas to develop. I’ll come back stronger next year,” she told reporters.
Swiatek acknowledged Keys’ intensity and her own errors, which included missed opportunities on serve.
This marks the second time Swiatek has lost to an American in an Australian Open semi-final, following her 2022 defeat to Danielle Collins. The loss also ended Swiatek’s bid to reclaim the world number one ranking, ensuring Aryna Sabalenka retains the top spot.
Meanwhile, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka continued her dominance, defeating Spain’s Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 to reach her third consecutive Australian Open final.
Sabalenka overcame a shaky start, trailing 2-0 in the first set, but rallied with her powerful forehand to seize control.
“I’m so proud of myself and my team,” said Sabalenka, who is vying to become the first woman since Martina Hingis (1997-99) to win three straight Australian Open titles.
Badosa, who had earlier stunned Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals, struggled against Sabalenka’s relentless pressure. The Belarusian capitalized on multiple break points and sealed the match with a forehand winner.
Sabalenka will face Madison Keys in Saturday’s final, aiming to add a fourth Grand Slam title to her collection.
