IN A surprising turn of events at the Queen’s Club semifinals in London on Sunday (June 15, 2025, PH time), veteran qualifier Tatjana Maria defeated Madison Keys in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6 (3).
The 37-year-old Maria, a German mother of two, secured her first career victory over the reigning Australian Open champion in their four encounters.
Her impressive run makes her the oldest singles finalist on the WTA Tour since Serena Williams won the Auckland Classic in 2020 at age 38.
“You always have to keep going. You never can stop; it doesn’t matter how it goes,” Maria commented. “I love to play tennis, I love this sport, and we live for these special moments.”
World No. 86 Maria, a former Wimbledon semifinalist, overcame World No. 8 Keys, who served 10 aces but was unable to convert any break points.
Keys, the tournament’s second seed, joins top seed Zheng Qinwen in exiting the tournament. Zheng was defeated by American Amanda Anisimova, ranked No. 8, 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.
Anisimova and Maria will face each other in the final, a rematch seven years in the making.
Anisimova praised her upcoming opponent, stating, “It’s incredible to see what she’s doing and her family is so cute, seeing her kids coming everywhere. It’s really special for her, and it’s going to be a great final.” / FROM THE WIRES