Madison
Keys defeated Venus Williams in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5, to advance in the 2023
Canadian Open.
In a clash
of Americans on the center court, the 43-year-old legend Venus Williams made
her return to a WTA tournament after an intriguing grass court swing, where she
showcased a good level of competition but was eliminated in the first round of
Wimbledon by Jelena Ostapenko.
Facing her
was world No. 15 Madison Keys, who came into the match in good form with an
11-2 record since the French Open. So far, Keys and Williams had a head-to-head
record of 3-2 in favor of the 28-year-old athlete, with their last encounter
occurring at the 2019 Cincinnati Open, resulting in a victory for Keys.
The first
set belonged entirely to Keys, who secured breaks in the first game and the
seventh game with great consistency from her forehand and service. Williams
managed only a 52% first serve percentage, winning 71% of those points, but a
mere 31% on her second serve.
On the
other hand, Keys, despite reaching a 59% first serve percentage, conceded only
six points on her service games.
The second
set started evenly for the Americans, with Williams displaying tremendous competitive
spirit, especially in the second game that extended to 18 points and had three
break points in her favor, all of which she couldn't capitalize on.
Several
errors in the seventh game allowed Keys to secure another crucial break, which
ultimately proved to be the deciding factor. The former world No. 7 faced
difficulties in closing out the match with her serve and wasted seven match
points.
In the
following game, Williams couldn't hold her serve, and Keys took a 6-5 lead once
again to seal the set with her own service game. However, physical discomfort
forced her to request a medical timeout before serving. She ultimately clinched
the set 7-5.
Venus
Williams will make her reappearance next week at the WTA 1000 Cincinnati Open,
where she received a wild card from the organizers.
As for
Keys, she will face world No. 49 Jasmine Paolini in the second round, who
defeated Donna Vekic in straight sets.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
