Serena Williams’ former coach, Rennae Stubbs, recently applauded Madison Keys’ performance during the fourth-round match at Roland Garros. According to the renowned mentor, Keys has gained enough composure to make excellent shot selections at this point in her career.
She also mentioned how it would not have been possible for her to do the same a few years back. The 54-year-old also highlighted the flaws in Hailey Baptiste’s performance throughout the match.
Madison Keys Receives Firm Backing From Stubbs
After Keys secured a swift straight-set win over compatriot Hailey Baptiste in the fourth round match, Stubbs couldn’t back down from applauding her dominant form. Taking to the social media platform X, the Australian former pro highlighted the new composure that she started seeing in Keys lately.
“Madison’s composure wins her so many matches these days. She would have lost this set by now a few years ago. Unbelievable FHs in that last game,” she wrote.
The renowned mentor also highlighted the issues in Bapstiste’s game, especially the improper shot selection throughout the match.
“And Hailey’s lack of focus in the big moments are showing now. Bad shot selections from her,” she added.
Madison’s composure wins her so many matches these days. She would have lost this set by now a few years ago. Unbelievable FHs in that last game. And Hailey’s lack of focus in the big moments are showing now. Bad shot selections from her.
— Rennae Stubbs ♈️ (@rennaestubbs) June 2, 2025
After the victory over Baptiste, Keys will now face world No.2 Coco Gauff in her third consecutive all-American showdown. The showdown is scheduled for Wednesday, June 4th.
Jon Wertheim and Andy Roddick pick sides ahead of Keys-Gauff showdown
Renowned American journalist Jon Wertheim and former pro Andy Roddick recently shared their analysis about the upcoming showdown between Gauff and Keys. According to the insider, the 30-year-old is highly likely to dominate the young rival with her strong forehand.
“To her great credit, she figures out a way back onto the path, but if Madi [Keys] picks apart that forehand or takes advantage of one of these walkabouts or these lapses or Coco’s serve isn’t clicking, then Madi has a real chance here. I think I am going to my first switch. I am thinking Keys [to win],” he said, in a recent episode of the Served Podcast.
Roddick, despite agreeing to the facts that favor Keys, showcased unwavering support for Gauff in the upcoming showdown.
“I don’t disagree. I think this is one of the ones where Madi seemed to have a tough draw. I am not flipping, but I do think that match is popcorn. I’m not going to reverse my call. I still have Coco in the final,” he said.
The upcoming showdown will mark the 6th meeting between Gauff and Keys. With the 30-year-old already maintaining a 3-2 lead, it still remains to be seen who will confirm a slot in the semifinals.
