The Australian Open’s spotlight shines brightly on U.S. talent as Madison Keys and Jessica Pegula stamped their authority in the third round. Both notched straight-set wins amid Melbourne’s heatwave, booking a blockbuster all-American Round of 16 tie that captures the imagination.
Keys was in imperious form, toppling ex-No. 1 Pliskova 6-3, 6-3 to hit a 10-match winning run at the venue—all under three hours apiece. Her baseline bombs and sharp serves shone through the 31-degree inferno, turning potential adversity into advantage.
Pegula matched the intensity, routing qualifier Selekhmeteva 6-3, 6-2 with superior mobility and shot precision. The sixth seed’s composure and attacking flair signal she’s peaking at the perfect time.
What elevates this matchup is the personal angle: close friends who’ve battled before. Keys’ thunderous strikes versus Pegula’s unflappable consistency sets up a tactical chess match laced with rivalry. As the draw tightens, this duel stands out as the must-watch event, potentially heralding an American semifinalist.