MELBOURNE: Defending champion Madison Keys began her Australian Open campaign with a nervy but ultimately convincing 7-6(6) 6-1 victory over Ukraine’s Oleksandra Oliynykova on Tuesday, while fellow American Ben Shelton edged past Ugo Humbert to reach the second round.
A year after lifting the trophy on Melbourne’s blue courts, Keys endured a shaky start on Rod Laver Arena against Grand Slam debutant Oliynykova. Hampered by double faults, the American fell into a 4-0 hole before clawing her way back to level at 4-4, only to be dragged into a tense tiebreak by her unorthodox opponent’s deep, looping shots.
Oliynykova earned two set points, but Keys leaned on her trademark power to escape danger and snatch the opening set, celebrating with a roar of relief. The second set proved far more straightforward as Keys settled into her rhythm to seal victory and book a second-round meeting with compatriot Ashlyn Krueger.
“It was incredible to walk out for the first time since walking off the court a year ago,” Keys said. “Obviously I was very nervous at the start, but I’m just so happy to be back and playing here.”
Eighth seed Shelton continued American success with a hard-fought 6-3 7-6(2) 7-6(5) win over France’s Humbert in a battle of left-handers. Shelton, who lost to Jannik Sinner in last year’s semi-finals, showed composure in key moments to move safely into the second round.
Long queues again formed outside Melbourne Park, with fans eager to catch Sinner as he begins his bid for a third consecutive Australian Open title against Hugo Gaston.
