Aryna Sabalenka sends warm message to conqueror Madison Keys after Australian Open final heartbreak

Aryna Sabalenka turned the page of this year's Australian Open heartbreak with a hopeful smile after America's Madison Keys defeated her in the final of the tournament. After a neck-and-neck race, the 29-year-old lifted the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup for the first time, as the audience applauded in admiration.

Even after such a close loss, the dejected Belarusian showed appreciation for her opponent at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"I mean, Madison, wow, what a tournament. I mean, you've been fighting really, really hard to get this trophy. You played unbelievable tennis, you crashed this tonight. Congrats to you and your team, really well deserved and enjoy, enjoy the celebration, enjoy the really fun part," said the two-time Australian Open title winner.

In the first set of the match, the defending champion's series of faulty serves were overpowered by the American's presence of mind. A flawless array of shot placements across the court gave her a 6-3 lead. However, Sabalenka fought back with a second-set win, getting on the nerves of her opponent.

The decider set was a battle of strengths as both capitalized on their serves and came down to 5-5. Keys won an easy point and got a lead with a great display of forehands. With a lofty shot and the inability to keep up with Madison's masterclass, the Belarusian had to bow down.

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Aryna Sabalenka breaks down on court after loss at Australian Open 2025 final

Aryna Sabalenka misses out on Third AO title - Source: Getty

Aryna Sabalenka was eyeing to return the shot as the ball tipped away to the other side, out of her reach. Madison Keys raised her hands in disbelief at her first-ever Grand Slam title win. The duo shared an embrace, after which Sabalenka murmured to herself in disappointment.

The two sides of the court displayed two contrasting emotions, as both the players shed tears- of joy and defeat, respectively. Dejected Sabalenka gave a loud grunt and smashed her racket on the court. Right after which she stormed off, as Keys gleamed with delight at her win.

The Belarusian, however, was quick to freshen up and greet the Australian gathering with a smile at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"I just want to say thank you. Thank you to everyone who made this tournament happen. Thank you to everyone who made my stay comfortable, and I really feel like home every time I'm here. Even though I didn't get it this year, I'll come back stronger and I'll do my best next year," she said.

Aryna Sabalenka left for home with a runners-up trophy and hopes to come back and clinch her third Australian Open title next year.