Madison Keys: Overcoming the Post-Grand Slam Crisis and Redefining Success

In January, Madison Keys achieved a lifelong dream by winning her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. However, the aftermath of this monumental victory brought unexpected emotional challenges. Keys, now ranked a career-high No. 5, shares her journey of navigating the post-Slam existential crisis and redefining her goals in the sport.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Keys described the period following her victory as emotionally draining. After the high of winning, she returned home to a sudden void. "It was really emotionally draining," Keys told ESPN. "You experience the highest of highs, and then it just kind of ends. I was basically comatose trying to recover."

The Warning from Peers

Keys wasn’t alone in this experience. Several former players reached out to her, warning her about the inevitable existential crisis that follows a major victory. "The existential crisis is totally normal," they told her. Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, and Ashleigh Barty, a three-time Grand Slam winner, both shared similar experiences of losing motivation after achieving their biggest goals.

Seeking Professional Help

Determined to avoid a similar path, Keys has been proactive in seeking psychological support. She started working with a psychologist a year ago and has continued weekly sessions since her return from Australia. "Talking through it all has been very helpful," Keys said. "I’m proud of myself for being vulnerable and brutally honest."

Taking Time Off

Instead of rushing back to competition, Keys allowed herself some rare time off. While her peers competed in the Middle East, Keys stayed at her Orlando home, training at the USTA’s National Campus. This break allowed her to soak in her victory and gain perspective.

The Support of Peers

The reception to her Australian Open victory was overwhelming. From current stars like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula to legends like Serena Williams, the tennis community flooded her with congratulations. "I’ve always wanted being a good person to be the lead about me," Keys said. "The support I received was validating and almost more special than the win itself."

Looking Ahead

Keys returns to action at the BNP Paribas Open, six weeks after her career-defining moment. As the No. 5 seed, she received a first-round bye and will face Anastasia Potapova on Saturday. While the expectations are high, Keys is focused on managing her expectations and enjoying the process. "The goal is to win another Slam," Keys said. "But I’m also realistic. It’s really hard to win one, so maybe it doesn’t happen again. And that’s also OK."