Madison Keys’ US Open Shock: Sixth Seed Ousted in First Round

Madison Keys Suffers Stunning US Open Exit as Mexican Underdog Zarazua Triumphs
By Daniel Matthews in New York | Updated: 20:05 BST, 25 August 2025

[Image: Madison Keys reacts during her first-round match against Renata Zarazua (Source: Daily Mail)]

In a shocking upset at the US Open, American sixth seed Madison Keys crashed out in the first round after a grueling three-set defeat to Mexico’s Renata Zarazua. The world No. 82 Zarazua clawed back from a set and a break down to secure a 6-7, 7-6, 7-5 victory, marking the biggest win of her career and one of the tournament’s earliest stunners.

Match Summary: A Rollercoaster Collapse

Keys, the 2017 US Open finalist and a fan favorite, started strong, leveraging her powerful baseline game to claim the first set in a tiebreak. She seemed poised for a routine victory after breaking Zarazua early in the second set. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as unforced errors began to plague the American. Keys ultimately tallied a staggering 89 unforced errors and 14 double faults, allowing Zarazua to seize control.

[Image: Renata Zarazua celebrates her upset win (Source: Daily Mail)]

Keys’ Struggles Under Pressure

The match exposed cracks in Keys’ composure. Her signature forehand, typically a weapon, misfired repeatedly, while her serve—often a strength—became inconsistent. Zarazua, meanwhile, showcased remarkable resilience, absorbing pace and extending rallies. “I knew I had to stay calm and take it point by point,” the Mexican later said. “Madison is an incredible player, so I just focused on keeping the ball in play.”

Zarazua’s Historic Triumph

For Zarazua, the win is career-defining. As Mexico’s sole singles representative, the 24-year-old entered Arthur Ashe Stadium as a heavy underdog. Yet her tenacity and tactical precision wore down Keys. Zarazua’s ability to convert crucial break points in the third set silenced the crowd and underscored her growing potential. “This feels surreal,” she admitted. “I’ve worked so hard for moments like this.”

Context: Keys’ Rocky Season

The loss adds to a turbulent year for Keys, who has struggled with consistency since reaching the Wimbledon semifinals in July. Once ranked as high as No. 7 globally, her early exit in New York raises questions about her form ahead of the WTA’s autumn swing. Meanwhile, Zarazua’s ranking is set to skyrocket, potentially breaking into the top 50 for the first time.

[Image: Fans watch in disbelief as Keys exits the court (Source: Daily Mail)]

Implications for the US Open

Keys’ departure leaves the women’s draw wide open, with top seeds like Coco Gauff and Iga Świątek now facing reduced competition. Zarazua advances to face qualifier Emma Navarro, a fellow underdog, in the second round. Their matchup promises intrigue, with Navarro fresh off her own upset over 31st seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

Conclusion: A Night of Surprises

While the US Open is no stranger to early upsets, Keys’ loss underscores the unpredictable nature of Grand Slam tennis. For Zarazua, the victory is a milestone that could redefine her career. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will remain on whether other top contenders can avoid similar fates.

Stay tuned for further updates from Flushing Meadows.

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Madison Keys suffers US Open humiliation as American No 6 seed crashes out in first round

Edited for brevity and clarity. Original word count: ~800; condensed to 650.