Madison Keys Survives Match Points in Cincinnati Comeback

CINCINNATI, Ohio—Madison Keys faced a daunting challenge in her opening match at the Cincinnati Open against Eva Lys. As she stood on the brink of defeat, with match points against her, Keys admitted her mind went blank. Despite the pressure, she managed to rally and secure a hard-fought victory.

Keys, the reigning Australian Open champion, demonstrated her resilience and determination by overcoming numerous momentum shifts. This win underscores her tenacity and sets the stage for a promising run in the tournament. Her ability to perform under pressure highlights why she is considered a top contender as she approaches the US Open.

In this article, we delve into the details of Keys’ thrilling comeback, her thoughts on the match, and her outlook for the rest of the season. We will explore her mindset, the key moments of the match, and what this victory means for her confidence heading into future tournaments.

Overcoming Adversity: Keys’ Comeback Against Lys

Madison Keys found herself in a tough spot early in the match, struggling to find her rhythm against Eva Lys. The first set saw Lys dominate, leaving Keys searching for answers. However, Keys regrouped and began to implement strategic adjustments.

“I think I blacked out,” Keys joked after coming back to win, 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (1). “I was just trying to win the point directly ahead of me.”

Keys weathered numerous momentum shifts, rallying from 0-3 down in the deciding set and roaring back from two match points down after serving for the match at 5-4. This remarkable turnaround highlights her mental fortitude and ability to stay composed under pressure. She capitalized on crucial moments, turning the tide in her favor and ultimately clinching the victory.

Keys’ Reflections on the Match

Following her victory, Madison Keys shared her thoughts on the match, providing insights into her mindset and approach. She acknowledged the challenges she faced and credited her ability to stay focused on each point as a key factor in her comeback.

“I think it was just one of those days where neither of us played great at the same time, but we both kind of kept finding it,” Keys explained. “I feel like sometimes that’s just a tennis match: you’re not both raising your level at the same time, and that kind of happened a little bit today. I also thought we both played really well at moments.”

Her ability to recognize and adapt to the ebbs and flows of the match demonstrates her experience and understanding of the game. Keys emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and adjusting her strategy as needed.

Returning to Queen City: Keys’ History in Cincinnati

Cincinnati holds a special place in Madison Keys’ career, as she won the title in 2019. This history adds significance to her return to the tournament and provides an extra boost of confidence as she navigates the competition.

A champion in Cincinnati back in 2019, Keys indeed saved her best tennis for last, ceding just one more point to Lys from match point down to walk through the final-set tiebreaker and secure victory in two hours and 12 minutes. She will next face qualifier Aoi Ito for a spot in the fourth round.

The familiarity with the venue and the support from the fans create a favorable environment for Keys. Her past success in Cincinnati serves as a reminder of her capabilities and motivates her to strive for another strong performance.

Looking Ahead: Keys’ Season and US Open Prospects

Madison Keys has had a strong season so far, highlighted by her Australian Open victory. As she transitions to the hard court season, she aims to maintain her momentum and build towards a successful US Open campaign.

Keys won from match point down for the fourth time in 2025, most crucially Down Under, where she went on to dethrone defending champion Aryna Sabalenka after nearly losing to Iga Swiatek in the semis. Her recent form and Grand Slam title make her a formidable contender for the US Open.

Her consistent performance throughout the year demonstrates her readiness to compete at the highest level. With her sights set on the US Open, Keys is focused on fine-tuning her game and preparing mentally for the challenges ahead.

Embracing the Cincinnati Crowd

Madison Keys expressed her appreciation for the Cincinnati crowd, noting their passion for tennis and the supportive atmosphere they create. The fans’ enthusiasm adds to the tournament experience and motivates players to perform their best.

“I’ve always loved this tournament and it’s always packed,” said Keys, praising the extensive renovations throughout the Lindner Family Tennis Center. “There’s never any match I’ve ever played where you look around and there’s not hundreds of people around…It’s always one of my favorite tournaments and I think the fans are a huge part of that.”

The connection between Keys and the Cincinnati fans creates a unique dynamic, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. This support can be a significant advantage as she progresses through the tournament.

Conclusion: Keys’ Resilience Sets the Tone

Madison Keys’ remarkable comeback against Eva Lys at the Cincinnati Open exemplifies her resilience, mental fortitude, and determination. Overcoming match points and momentum shifts, Keys showcased her ability to perform under pressure and secure a hard-fought victory.

Her reflections on the match, combined with her history in Cincinnati and strong season performance, position her as a top contender for the US Open. The support from the Cincinnati crowd further fuels her motivation, creating a positive and encouraging environment.

As Keys continues her journey, her Cincinnati performance serves as a testament to her capabilities and sets the stage for a promising future. Her ability to battle through adversity and maintain focus highlights her as a true champion, ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.