After winning the 2025 Australian Open title, Madison Keys has been urged by retired Australian star Samantha Stosur to avoid competing in certain WTA events in order to fully appreciate her victory.

Keys began the 2025 season by winning the title in Adelaide. The American would ride her momentum int the first Grand Slam of the season, where she’d upset the likes of former World No.1 Iga Swiatek to reach the final. Keys would defeat two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling encounter, securing her maiden Grand Slam title in the process.

Avoiding subsequent WTA events would be beneficial, says Stosur

The 2011 US Open champion made an appearance on compatriot Rennae Stubb’s podcast, where she advised Keys on her match scheduling following the American’s first Major title.

“If I was her and could go back, I probably wouldn’t bother playing Doha if that is the next one after Abu Dhabi, said Stosur. “Just take some time and enjoy, you are not going to win matches now just because you won the Australian Open.
“It doesn’t mean you now will just carry on, you still have to prepare, practice and do all the things that have got you to win the Australian Open.
“Realistically there is just not enough time and just enjoy it, who knows if she is going to win another Grand Slam, so now just really enjoy it for yourself and the people you want to enjoy it with before you get back out there.”

Keys has already announced her withdrawal from the WTA 1000 event in Doha this month, and Stosur believes the 29-year old would benefit from taking some time off.

“You are going to do it all again, you are going to do media and relive the Aussie Open all over again,” she said. “Which is great and that’s going to happen no matter where you start, but just feel prepared to put in the same way.”