WATCH: Aryna Sabalenka talks to Australian Open trophy on her way to collect runner-up award after Madison Keys final heartbreak

Aryna Sabalenka cheekily talked with the Australian Open trophy when she ascended the stage to collect her runner-up award. The Belarusian, who had her hands on the trophy for the past two years, had to suffice with the runner-up one this year as Madison Keys defeated her in an exhilarating final.

Sabalenka won the Australian Open title in 2023 and 2024 before reaching the final hurdle toward a rare three-peat. Keys, only in her second Grand Slam final, was gunning for her first Major title while the Belarusian eyed her fourth.

It was, however, Keys who triumphed in a topsy-turvy final full of quality from both competitors. Sabalenka was distraught after losing, breaking down in tears, breaking her racket, and storming off. However, she returned in her usual demeanor, joking, already looking forward to next year.

As Sabalenka ascended the stage and accepted her runner-up award, Sabalenka came face-to-face with the winner's trophy, a trophy she had her hands on for two years running. Cheekily, she told the trophy:

"I hope I’ll see you next year"

Watch the video below:

On Saturday, January 25, at Rod Laver Arena, Madison Keys defeated Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling Australian Open final, with stars like Jackie Chan among the attendees.

Keys started strong, earning a double break and eventually bagging the first set. Sabalenka dominated the second almost mirroring the American's first set. However, the final set saw Keys deliver clutch winners to seal her maiden Grand Slam title. The match ended with a hard-fought 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 victory for Keys.

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Aryna Sabalenka vows to "come back stronger" after Australian Open 2025 final loss against Madison Keys

Aryna Sabalenka (L) and Madison Keys with their trophies at the 2025 Australian Open - Source: Getty

Aryna Sabalenka was gracious in defeat against Madison Keys at the 2025 Australian Open final. She had kind words for the hard work put in by the American and expressed gratitude for a tournament that feels like "home" to her.

"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," Sabalenka said.

"Even though I didn't get it this year, I'll come back stronger and I'll do my best next year," she added.

Aryna Sabalenka will continue to be World No. 1 after her runner-up finish, while Madison Keys will return to the Top 10 for the first time since January 2023 and be ranked World No. 7 after her phenomenal triumph.