US teen wins, Petra Kvitova out of Open

Petra Kvitova has become the highest-profile loser in the women's draw at the Australian Open, going down in straight sets to American teenager Maidson Keys.

A career-best performance from teenager Madison Keys sent fourth seed Petra Kvitova packing in the third round of the Australian Open.

Keys has long been rated one of the best prospects on tour and the 19-year-old showed exactly why on Saturday night, powering to a 6-4 7-5 victory in one hour and 24 minutes.

Keys next faces Madison Brengle in an all-American affair, the fourth-round clash already ranking as both players' best finish at any grand slam.

"My hands are still shaking. I'm really happy I served that game out so well," Keys said.

A day after Roger Federer's shock exit, Kvitova became the highest-profile casualty in the women's draw.

This time around the boilover was created by a young upstart gracing Rod Laver Arena for the first time.

Keys appointed Lindsay Davenport as coach last November, seeking out the 2000 Australian Open winner who was also burdened with great expectations as a teenager.

"It was a great off-season. I learned a lot," Keys said of Davenport.

Similarities between Keys and Davenport's playing styles have perhaps been overplayed since.

But, as local hope Casey Dellacqua found out in the second round, Keys packs a serious punch.

Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon winner and in fine form after taking out her 15th WTA title in Sydney earlier this month, was overwhelmed by the American.

Keys broke Kvitova to love for a 5-4 lead, then took out the first set in style with a booming 188km/h ace down the centre line.

The second set followed a somewhat similar script - Keys breaking early and Kvitova fighting back to put it back on serve.

Keys broke back instantly for a 3-2 lead, but a double-fault helped Kvitova level it again at 3-3.

Keys continued to exhibit magnificent ball-striking ability and maturity beyond her years.

When Kvitova pushed a return wide, the underdog had a chance to serve for the match at 6-5.

Keys failed to drop another point in the match, ramping up her aggression when it mattered most.


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