Defending champion Madison Keys outplayed Ashlyn Krueger in an all-American second-round match at the Australian Open. Keys, seeded No.9, secured a 6-1, 7-5 victory, marking her first major as the defending champion. Despite a tough challenge in the second set, Keys rallied from behind to clinch the win in 1 hour and 13 minutes.
In a post-match statement to WTA, Keys acknowledged Krueger’s improved performance in the match. She highlighted her own determination to regain momentum and analyze her game strategy during critical moments. Keys’ strategic approach and resilience were key factors in her comeback during the match.
Meanwhile, No. 6 seed Jessica Pegula also progressed to the third round of the Australian Open 2026 by defeating McCartney Kessler in another all-American showdown at Rod Laver Arena. Pegula dominated the match with a 6-0, 6-2 victory, showcasing her competitive spirit and skill on the court. Despite a brief interruption due to Kessler’s medical time-out, Pegula maintained her focus and secured the win in just 58 minutes.
Reflecting on the match, Pegula praised Kessler’s competitive spirit and expressed respect for her opponent’s performance. She highlighted the unique situation of facing a close friend and doubles partner in a singles match, emphasizing the challenges and camaraderie shared between the players.
