US Open 2024: Keys' Reign Ends Early; Zarazua Claims Upset Win

Michael

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Post on Aug 27, 2025

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US Open 2024: Keys' Reign Ends Early; Zarazua Claims Upset Win

A shocking upset rocked the US Open 2024 as American favorite Madison Keys suffered a surprising defeat at the hands of Mexico's Renata Zarazua in the second round. The match, filled with dramatic rallies and unexpected twists, saw Zarazua triumph in a thrilling three-set battle, ending Keys' hopes of a deep run in her home Grand Slam. This stunning victory marks a significant milestone in Zarazua's career and sends shockwaves through the women's singles draw.

Keys Falters Under Pressure

Madison Keys, seeded fifth and a prominent contender for the title, entered the tournament with high expectations. Her powerful serve and aggressive baseline game had propelled her to previous Grand Slam success, making her a fan favorite at Flushing Meadows. However, she appeared visibly rattled by Zarazua's relentless pressure and unorthodox playing style. Keys' normally potent serve was less effective, and her usually decisive groundstrokes lacked consistency.

The first set saw a closely fought battle, with both players trading breaks. Ultimately, Zarazua edged ahead, capitalizing on Keys’ uncharacteristic errors to take the set 7-5. The second set saw Keys briefly regain her composure, winning comfortably 6-3. However, the momentum shifted decisively in the third.

Zarazua's Triumphant Third Set

Renata Zarazua, currently ranked outside the top 50, displayed remarkable resilience and tactical prowess throughout the match. She employed a highly effective mix of drop shots, angled volleys, and powerful forehands, consistently keeping Keys off balance. The decisive third set showcased Zarazua’s tenacity; she broke Keys’ serve early and held firm under pressure, eventually sealing the victory with a stunning cross-court winner, winning 6-4.

Key moments from the final set included:

• Zarazua's crucial break in the third game, shifting the momentum decisively in her favor.
• Keys' double fault at 4-5, adding to the pressure and ultimately costing her the match.
• Zarazua’s unwavering composure throughout the final games, demonstrating her mental fortitude.

This win is a testament to Zarazua's unwavering dedication and improved skill. It also highlights the unpredictable nature of Grand Slam tennis, where even the most highly-ranked players can be vulnerable to upsets.

Looking Ahead: Implications for the US Open

Zarazua's victory opens up the women's draw, creating opportunities for other players to advance. The unexpected upset also raises questions about Keys' form and consistency moving forward. Her performance in New York will undoubtedly be analyzed by tennis experts and fans alike.

This stunning upset serves as a reminder that anything can happen at a Grand Slam. While Keys’ campaign ended prematurely, Zarazua's impressive victory is a significant story of the tournament so far. We can expect to see more thrilling matches as the US Open 2024 continues. What will the next round bring? Stay tuned!

Keywords: US Open, US Open 2024, Madison Keys, Renata Zarazua, tennis, upset, Grand Slam, Flushing Meadows, women's tennis, sports news, tennis tournament.