Down a set and 0-3 in the second, Renata Zarazúa from Mexico did almost the unthinkable against No. 6 seed Madison Keys at the US Open 2025. The little-fancied 27-year-old mounted a massive comeback in a match decided by the smallest of margins, grinding out a 6-7 (10), 7-6 (3), 7-5 win over the reigning Australian Open champion in three hours.
Following the first top-10 win of her career, the Mexican player spoke candidly about the immense nerves she carried into the encounter.
Why Was Renata Zarazúa ‘Almost Crying’ Before Taking the Court Against Keys?
Following the memorable win over the American phenom, Zarazúa, ranked No. 82 in the world, was asked about her feelings. “Coming into the match, I was like… almost crying because I was really nervous,” she revealed. The support of the crowd helped her ease into the match, Zarazúa said.
Zarazúa continued, “But I think the crowd made it so chill for me, so I was loosening up. Thank you guys for staying. I know my game is a bit tricky, so sometimes people get a bit bored.”
The Mexican relies on tactical intelligence, strategic decision-making, and a variety of shots rather than raw power. She is known for her varied serve, spin, and slices, which disrupt opponents’ rhythm.
Expressing her feelings on stepping onto Arthur Ashe Stadium for the first time, Zarazúa said, “Coming in here, it was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is huge.’ I was just trying to focus on the court basically.”
“I just kind of find my way and enjoy it because I knew, when I retire, I am going to be really happy about it.”
Zarazúa’s victory over Keys is even more impressive considering that the hard-hitting American has traditionally performed strongly at the US Open. In addition to her run to the final in New York eight years ago before losing to Sloane Stephens, Keys was also a semifinalist at the US Open in 2018 and 2023.
She is set to compete against Frenchwoman Diane Parry, who took out sentimental favorite Petra Kvitova, for a spot in the third round of the US Open 2025.
Who Is Zarazúa, the Madison Keys’ Conqueror?
Among a handful of Mexicans competing on the pro tour, Zarazúa’s biggest successes have come at the challenger level, where she has won two titles.
With her win against Keys, she has already matched her best Grand Slam singles result. Notably, the Mexican player has reached at least the second round of each Grand Slam.
In 2021, she became the first Mexican woman to play a WTA Tour semifinal since 1993, when she reached the last four stage of her home tournament in Acapulco. Last year, she made her debut in the top 100 of the world rankings.
Earlier this year, Zarazúa became the first Mexican player to win a match at the Australian Open in 25 years when she defeated Taylor Townsend.
