"Tomorrow we’re enemies": Keys calls Brady one of the 'most popular' and 'nicest' players on tour, but sends warning ahead of DC Open tie

America’s tennis star Madison Keys has heaped praise on her fellow countrywoman Jennifer Brady.

The two are set to clash in the second round of the Citi DC Open in Washington on Thursday.

Keys, after defeating China’s Qinwen Zheng in the round of 32 clash on Tuesday, heaped praise on her next round’s opponent but also sent a warning ahead of the clash.

“I think she’s one of the most popular people on tour because she’s just amazing, funny and one of the nicest people,” she said. “We played doubles yesterday, which was great. Tomorrow we’re enemies. But then we go back to being doubles partners & friends again.”

Brady defeated Anhelina Kalinina of Ukraine in straight sets in the first round with a score of 6-2, 6-1 to continue her journey in the competition.

Interestingly, this will be only the second time — and first time in nearly four years — when Keys will face Brady at the highest level.

In their previous meeting, which was during the China Open back in 2019, it was the latter who came out on top in three sets with a score of 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.