"She needs to do more of that": Andy Roddick’s advice to Madison Keys ahead of Australian Open final
WTASaturday, 25 January 2025 at 01:00
Andy Roddick offered advice to Madison Keys before her Australian Open final against two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. The World No. 14 is on an impeccable start to the season with an 11-0 record, matching Sabalenka’s streak. She surprised many by defeating Iga Swiatek in the semifinals.
The 29-year-old American has demonstrated her potential by reaching her second Grand Slam final, with wins over notable opponents like former finalist Elena Rybakina and Ukrainian Elina Svitolina along the way. Her victory over Swiatek, 5-7, 6-1, 7-6 [10-8], secured her spot in the Australian Open final.
Roddick highlights the serve factor
The only other time Keys reached a Grand Slam final was at the 2017 US Open, where she lost to her friend Sloane Stephens in a dominant 6-3, 6-0 match. The former World No. 7 now has another opportunity, though she faces a steep challenge against Sabalenka, the most dominant player over the past year, particularly on hard courts.
In the latest episode of Served with Roddick, the former World No. 1 emphasized that Keys’ serving efficiency will be crucial to challenging Sabalenka’s reign in Melbourne.“If Maddie Keys wants to win the Australian Open, her [first serve] number needs to be up around that 69/70%,” Roddick explained. “It needs to be above 65, 67%. And she will have to move the second serve around the box a little bit."
“The kick is great because it gets up above. Iga was able to handle it. Sabalenka will be able to handle it. I would love to see her mix it up, even early against Sabalenka so she doesn’t know what is coming,” Roddick added on his podcast.
“If Sabalenka knows what is coming, she is going to put an absolute hurt on the ball, and Maddie is going to have to switch directions more than she likes to. Maddie was threading lines today [vs. Swiatek], she is going to have to do more of that.”
The women’s final is set for Saturday night at Rod Laver Arena. Sabalenka aims to become the first player since Martina Hingis (1997-1999) to win three consecutive Australian Open titles. Meanwhile, Keys could become the first American to claim the title since Sofia Kenin in 2020.
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.
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