Madison Keys showcased her powerful game to defeat Katerina Siniakova 6-4, 6-1 in the first round of the U.S. Open on August 26. Keys, who reached the final at Flushing Meadows in 2017, has been battling injuries this season but displayed no signs of lingering issues on the court. She dominated the match with 17 winners and broke Siniakova's serve five times.

Siniakova, a nine-time Grand Slam women's doubles champion and recent mixed doubles gold medalist at the Paris Games, struggled with her serve throughout the match. She managed only 52% of her first serves and committed 11 double faults, which contributed to her difficulties.

The first set was competitive, but Keys increased her aggression in the second set, quickly taking control. Despite a brief setback when she was broken back, Keys regained her momentum and sealed the victory with a commanding performance. She finished the match with a decisive inside-out forehand winner and a strong service return on match point.

In her post-match interview, Keys emphasized the importance of maintaining her aggression and focusing on her own game, particularly her serve. She expressed pride in the hard work she has put in this year, overcoming injuries and setbacks, and noted that she feels she is playing some of her best tennis.

Keys, who had to retire from her matches at Wimbledon and Toronto due to injuries earlier this year, looked in excellent form during this match. She will face Australian qualifier Maya Joint in the second round as she continues her pursuit at the U.S. Open.