The clay court season began days ago on the professional circuit, a moment when some names fear losing their status for a few months. Could Madison Keys be one of the women to take a step back?
It could be, although we are by no means saying that Madison Keys doesn't know how to play on clay. Just look at her track record to understand that, despite it not being her best surface, she has enough talent to have left her mark on some major events covered in red dust. After advancing past her first round at the Charleston WTA 500, the American sat down with Tennis Channel to discuss her relationship with clay, the excitement of playing this tournament again, and her expectations for the upcoming months.
Madison Keys and her relationship with clay
“I grew up playing on green clay, I grew up in Florida, so from a very young age, I started competing on this surface and sliding. I think this is the most challenging aspect for all of us, sliding on clay when you're unsure of your movements, it's something that ends up affecting everything. Feeling comfortable with this movement has always been a key factor for me. Interestingly, there are many people who keep telling me that I'm a great clay court player. I tell them that I'm not, but well... (laughs).”
In love with the Charleston tournament
“I've always loved this place, this tournament; I love playing here every season. It's a beautiful city, the fans are amazing, the facilities are spectacular, undoubtedly one of the best tournaments in the world. Plus, I've had a lot of success here, I've won the title and played more finals, reached the quarterfinals many times, that's why I always tell Bob: Next year, I'm coming back!”
Madison Keys' main goal on this clay court swing
“This is a very important swing for the majority, so my intention is to focus on the little details. Right now, all the girls are very good, I think the level shows in every match, so none of them have glaring weaknesses. If I don't hit every ball perfectly, the opponent will win the point, so it's time to work on those details and then follow it up by being brave on the court. We all play to win here, so you have to go out and take the initiative.”

Playing without pressure after winning a Grand Slam
“It has been a long process, a process of finding balance. I worked hard not to feel that my career needed to win a Grand Slam, until the day came when I did it, then I thought: And now what? At that moment, I realized a lot of pressure came from myself, so now I'm starting to feel comfortable again, accepting that winning a single tournament of this caliber is already incredible.”
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Madison Keys se marca un objetivo muy concreto en esta gira de tierra

