Madison Keys, the Australian Open champion, was unexpectedly disqualified from the ATX Open in Austin, Texas, due to a WTA rule that prevents 250-level tournaments from hosting two players ranked within the top 10. Keys' historic Grand Slam victory propelled her to world No. 7, disqualifying her from the event.
Australian Open champion Madison Keys has been disqualified from an upcoming tournament immediately following her historic Grand Slam victory. The 29-year-old enjoyed a stellar start to her 2025 season, claiming the title in Adelaide before securing the championship in Melbourne. However, her remarkable ascent from 21st in the rankings at the beginning of the year to world No. 7 has unfortunately led to her exclusion from the ATX Open in Austin, Texas, scheduled for late February.
This is due to a specific WTA rule that prevents 250-level tournaments, the smallest events on the elite tour, from hosting two players ranked within the top 10, unless one is the defending champion. This rule was implemented to ensure the distribution of talent across the numerous tournaments held each week. While Keys has previously held top 10 ranking positions during her career, she had spent most of the past three years ranked between 11th and 25th. ATX Open organizers stated they had reached an agreement with Keys last year when she was ranked 21st. But the immense rewards associated with winning a Grand Slam propelled Keys comfortably into the top 10, resulting in her disqualification. Tournament director Christo van Rensburg expressed the ATX Open's commitment to attracting top female players, highlighting Keys' success in Australia as evidence of their ability to draw the best talent. Van Rensburg acknowledged the disappointment of the situation, stating their love for Keys and anticipation for her participation in Austin. He emphasized their respect for the WTA rules, despite the rule's impact on their tournament. Despite the setback, van Rensburg expressed enthusiasm for welcoming Jessica Pegula, ranked world No. 6, to her first-ever ATX Open next month. Pegula's participation is eagerly anticipated by the organizers. It remains unclear whether Pegula secured the spot due to prior commitment or higher ranking compared to Keys. The situation underscores the complexities and competitiveness within professional tennis, where even the most celebrated achievements can lead to unexpected consequences under strict regulations
Tennis WTA Australian Open Madison Keys ATX Open Jessica Pegula Ranking Rule Grand Slam
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
American seed Madison Keys says ‘aggression’ was key to Australian Open quarter-final comeback7NEWS brings you the latest local news from Australia and around the world. Stay up to date with all of the breaking sport, politics, entertainment, finance, weather and business headlines. Today's news, live updates & all the latest breaking stories from 7NEWS.
Read more »
Madison Keys defeats Swiatek in instant classic to reach Australian Open finalWith one of the greatest victories of her 16-year career, Madison Keys will contest the second grand slam final of her career against Aryna Sabalenka at the Australian Open on Saturday
Read more »
Madison Keys Upsets Iga Świątek to Reach Australian Open FinalAmerican tennis player Madison Keys defeated Iga Świątek in a thrilling three-set match to reach the Australian Open final. Keys will face Aryna Sabalenka in the championship match.
Read more »
Madison Keys Conquers Pressure to Reach Australian Open FinalMadison Keys defeats Iga Swiatek to secure her second Grand Slam final berth in nearly eight years. Keys reflects on her previous final experience at the 2017 US Open, acknowledging the immense pressure and her struggles to perform. She credits her recent success to embracing change, including a new racket and coaching partnership with her husband. Keys is now ready to face Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open final.
Read more »
Australian Open live: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka takes on Madison Keys in women's singles finalTwo-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka looks for a third as 19th seed American Madison Keys searches for her maiden grand slam triumph. Follow live
Read more »
Tears everywhere as Madison Keys beats Aryna Sabalenka in epic Australian Open final7NEWS brings you the latest local news from Australia and around the world. Stay up to date with all of the breaking sport, politics, entertainment, finance, weather and business headlines. Today's news, live updates & all the latest breaking stories from 7NEWS.
Read more »