Madison Keys recovered from early-stage fright to begin the defence of her Australian Open title in winning fashion.
The American claimed a long-sought-after first grand slam victory here 12 months ago, beating Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka on Rod Laver Arena, but returning to the same court against Ukrainian debutante Oleksandra Oliynykova threatened to turn into a nightmare.
Keys lost the opening four games, clawed her way back to a tie-break and had to save two set points before finally relaxing and pulling away to win 7-6 (8-6), 6-1.
“The moment they say, ‘Ready, play’, it’s kind of all hits you in a way that I don’t think you can ever really explain to someone,” said a relieved Keys afterwards.
“But, as nerve-racking and as stressful as that can be, I am still reminding myself of just how few people get to be in that moment, and being able to walk out today and have the crowd be as welcoming as they were, I will take the stress any day,” she said.
Although she could not pull off the upset, it was a moment of immense pride for Oliynykova (25), who made her mark for more than just her temporary facial tattoos.
She has risen rapidly through the rankings and revealed that she draws inspiration from her father, who is fighting for Ukraine in the country’s war with Russia.
“I’m so proud of him. Actually, this is what’s keeping me even more motivated. After he joined the military, I did progress for over 200 (ranking) positions, because I know it was his dream to see me on this court,” she said.
Unlike most of her compatriots, Oliynykova still lives and trains in Ukraine, despite the dangers it currently poses.
“During the preparations, I was hearing the explosions. There were a couple of massive attacks the last night I spent in Ukraine before the trip here,” she said.
“There was an explosion just near my home, and a drone hit the home just across the road. My apartment was literally shaking because of the explosion.
In my apartment, I have no electricity, no water, no heat. Every opportunity to say about this, I believe it’s very important,” she added.
-Nampa/AFP
