Keys starts Adelaide title defence with a win

Holder Madison Keys needed a set to get into rhythm before beginning her Adelaide International title defence 6-4, 6-1 over Tereza Valentova on Wednesday.

A year ago, second seed Keys translated the South Australian title here into an Australian Open trophy.

Keys, 30, ranked ninth on the WTA, came through a choppy opening set, committing seven double-faults but calling upon her career experience against an 18-year-old Czech opponent.

Her game improved in the second set as she broke twice and finished a trip to the quarter-finals at Memorial Drive on a third match point after 85 minutes.

“Experience helps get through the tricky moments,” Keys said.

“I was able to take momentum in the second set and play really well. I had to raise my level (winning five games in a row at the midway point)..

“You have to take your chances on any opportunities you get..”

Keys said that facing a new WTA generation of players is always a challenge.

“I have to lean on my experience a little bit. They are so young, have so much energy and are just so good. You expect them to play great tennis.”

The American will play a Thursday quarter-final against another teen as she faces 18-year-old Canadian Victoria Mboko, winner of a 1000-level tournament  last season in Toronto.

Keys began her 2026 Australian Open run-up last week in Brisbane, exiting in the quarter-finals to world number one Aryna Sabalenka while dealing with a minor leg problem.