NEW YORK — Australian Open champion Madison Keys faced an unexpected defeat in the first round of the U.S. Open, succumbing to 89 unforced errors and losing 6-7 (10), 7-6 (3), 7-5 against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua on Monday.
The sixth-seeded Keys, a finalist at Flushing Meadows in 2017, struggled significantly with errors, including a staggering 14 double-faults, allowing Zarazua to secure this monumental victory with just eight winners.
Ranked 82nd, Zarazua previously suffered first or second-round exits in all eight of her Grand Slam appearances.
Earlier this year, Keys celebrated her first major title at Melbourne Park, where she triumphed over No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a spectacular final.
In addition to her remarkable run to the U.S. Open final in 2017, where she was defeated by close friend Sloane Stephens, Keys also reached the semifinals in 2018 and 2023.
However, heavily taped on her left thigh, the powerful Keys encountered difficulties throughout the match against the 5-foot-3 Zarazua, who entered the day with a 0-6 record against top-10 ranked opponents.
“I’m a bit short in height, so coming in here, it felt enormous,” Zarazua shared about stepping onto the largest stadium in Grand Slam tennis, which accommodates nearly 24,000 fans.
Reflecting on the match, Zarazua stated, “When I retire, I’ll cherish this moment,” emphasizing her determination to savor the experience.
As the match concluded with Keys misfiring yet another forehand, Zarazua beamed with joy, lifting her racket above her head while moving forward for a handshake, before playfully covering her face.
This match was truly unforgettable, marked by relentless effort over 3 hours and 10 minutes, despite Keys’ ongoing struggles and Zarazua’s resilience.
The challenge for Zarazua was converting crucial points, as she had multiple chances to clinch the first set while leading 4-2 but couldn’t convert. Eventually, Keys seized her third set point.
In the second set, Zarazua found herself down 0-3, yet made an impressive comeback, winning five consecutive games to lead 5-3. Even after Keys rallied to 6-5, Zarazua triumphed in the tiebreaker to bring the match to a decisive third set.
As the final set unfolded, Zarazua surged ahead, serving for victory at 5-3, but Keys broke back and held serve to tie it 5-5.
Ultimately, Zarazua claimed the last two games to seal the win.
Among the 25 American players competing in women’s singles at their home Grand Slam, Zarazua stands as Mexico’s sole representative.
“It’s a country with few tennis players, as you can see,” said Zarazua. “We always strive to give our best. But it was heartening to hear some Mexican fans cheering; that was wonderful.”
What other highlights transpired at the U.S. Open on Monday?
Brazilian sensation João Fonseca, who celebrated his 19th birthday Thursday, made an impressive U.S. Open debut, defeating Miomir Kecmanovic 7-6 (3), 7-6 (5), 6-3 in front of an enthusiastic crowd of supporters. This triumph marks his 4-0 record in first-round matches at majors in 2025. Meanwhile, another talented player, 18-year-old Canadian Vicky Mboko, seeded 22nd, succumbed to two-time major champion Barbora Krejcikova with a score of 6-3, 6-2. Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, age 35, also played her last match before retirement, losing 6-1, 6-0 to Diane Parry. Frances Tiafoe, Venus Williams, and Carlos Alcaraz were slated to take the court later on Monday.
Who to watch on Tuesday at the U.S. Open?
Day 3 features an exciting lineup with Grand Slam champions Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek, and Jannik Sinner showcasing their talents in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Gauff’s opponent, Ajla Tomljanovic, notably defeated Serena Williams in the last match of the legendary player’s illustrious career. This match will be Gauff’s first since partnering with biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan to refine her serve.
