“Keke Palmer Stuns in Edgy Balmain Look at American Black Film Festival Honors”
Keke Palmer turned heads at the American Black Film Festival Honors with her bold and dramatic take on the classic shirtdress. The actress and singer stepped out in a deconstructed Balmain ensemble that showcased her edgy style and fearless fashion sense.
Palmer’s look featured a modern twist on the traditional shirtdress, with intricate cut-outs and unexpected details that added a touch of glamour to the ensemble. The sleek silhouette and monochromatic color palette allowed the star to stand out on the red carpet, while also exuding sophistication and confidence.
The actress completed her look with minimal accessories and a sleek hairstyle, letting the statement piece speak for itself. Palmer’s daring fashion choice proved that she is not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of traditional red carpet style.
Overall, Keke Palmer’s bold Balmain look at the American Black Film Festival Honors was a true showstopper, showcasing her unique sense of style and fashion-forward mindset.
Keke Palmer Stuns in Deconstructed Balmain Look for American Black Film Festival Honors
Keke Palmer turned heads at the American Black Film Festival Honors in a striking deconstructed Balmain shirtdress. The actress and singer put a dramatic spin on the classic shirtdress silhouette, showing off her edgy style and fashion-forward taste.
Palmer’s Balmain look featured bold cutouts and asymmetrical detailing, giving the traditional shirtdress a modern and avant-garde twist. The black and white color palette added a touch of sophistication to the ensemble, while the structured silhouette highlighted Palmer’s statuesque figure.
The star accessorized with statement earrings and sleek, straight hair, completing the look with a fierce and confident attitude. Palmer’s daring fashion choice definitely paid off, as she stole the show on the red carpet and garnered praise for her bold and innovative style.
Overall, Keke Palmer’s deconstructed Balmain look at the American Black Film Festival Honors was a fashion moment to remember, showcasing her unique and fearless approach to style.
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Attention all Cardi B fans! Get ready because the queen is coming back in full force. In a new promo released, Cardi B looks absolutely stunning and ready to conquer the world once again.
Not only that, but it has also been confirmed that Cardi B will be making an appearance at the upcoming Grammy Awards. This is definitely exciting news for all of her fans who have been eagerly waiting for her return to the stage.
Make sure to mark your calendars and tune in to see Cardi B slay at the Grammys. It’s definitely going to be a night to remember. She’s coming, and she’s coming in style! #CardiB #Grammys #QueenCardiB
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The 29-year-old Texas native — who recently got a restraining order against Tory Lanez — commanded attention as she modeled a creamy orange number from the Italian fashion range.
The clinging dress boasted expertly tailored draping, a statement-making hood, plus a true-orange floral accoutrement at the waist.
She looked typically stunning in a full face of makeup that included sharp-winged black eyeliner, shimmery highlight, and contoured cheeks.
Stepping away from her typical, long and elaborately decorated nails, the rap artist went with a shorter style.
Megan Thee Stallion turned heads in France on Monday as she attended the Giambattista Valli show during Paris Fashion Week
The 29-year-old Texas native commanded attention as she modeled a creamy orange number from the Italian fashion range
She showed off a whimsical, multi-colored variety featuring the latest and trendiest varnish including a golden-yellow ‘cat eye’ on one finger, and a textured turquoise color on another.
She testified remotely, telling Los Angeles Judge Richard Bloom that Lanez, 32, has presided over a ‘campaign of harassment’ against her as he serves time.
Judge Richard Bloom ruled Lanez must not contact Megan in any form, including through intermediaries, for five years.
Megan said she fears that Lanez will seek violent retribution against her after he is released from custody.
‘It just seems like I have to relive it every day,’ she told the court. ‘The person who shot me won’t let me forget it. I’m scared that when he gets out of jail he’s going to still be upset with me… I feel like maybe he’ll shoot me again and maybe this time I won’t make it.’
The Grammy winner told the court that Lanez, from behind bars, has presided over a ‘campaign of harassment’ intended to ‘terrorize her’ and that she is ‘tired of being harassed.’
Judge Bloom said Megan granted Megan the legal order, accepting the star’s evidence that Lanez has demonstrated a ‘credible threat of violence’ that ‘serves no lawful purpose’ and is intended to ‘seriously’ harass her.
The clinging dress boasted expertly tailored draping, a statement-making hood, plus a true-orange floral accoutrement at the waist. Megan teased just a few inches of her copper-colored hair, with the locks arranged in a swooped curl that was slicked onto her forehead
She looked typically stunning in a full face of makeup that included sharp-winged black eyeliner, shimmery highlight, and contoured cheeks
The hitmaker expressed gratitude as she politely replied, ‘Thank you, judge.’
Attorneys for the star told the court that Lanez has still been trying to confuse the public about the details of the case, with a fake story featured on X/Twitter last fall claiming he’d been declared ‘innocent’ in appeals court, Billboard reported.
In a federal lawsuit filed in October, her team said that YouTuber Milagro Gramz was hired to by Lanez to function as his ‘mouthpiece and puppet’ while the rapper does time.
She says has not ‘been at peace’ since the July 2020 shooting occurred.
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Megan Thee Stallion stuns in creamsicle hooded dress at Giambattista Valli show during Paris Fashion Week
Megan Thee Stallion turned heads at the Giambattista Valli show during Paris Fashion Week with her show-stopping creamsicle hooded dress. The rapper and fashion icon looked absolutely stunning as she strutted her stuff in the vibrant orange ensemble, showcasing her fierce sense of style and confidence. With her signature bold makeup and killer curves, Megan commanded attention and proved once again why she is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world. Keep slaying, Megan! #MeganTheeStallion #ParisFashionWeek #GiambattistaValli #FashionIcon
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Megan Thee Stallion stuns in hooded dress during Paris Fashion Week
Megan Thee Stallion turned heads on Monday at the Giambattista Valli show during Paris Fashion Week.
The 29-year-old rapper from Texas made a bold fashion statement in a creamy orange hooded dress, featuring expertly tailored draping and a floral accent at the waist.
According to Daily Mail, Megan, whose full name is Megan Pete, completed the look with her signature elegance, showcasing a swooped curl of her copper-colored hair slicked onto her forehead.
Moreover, her makeup included sharp-winged eyeliner, shimmering highlights, and contoured cheeks.
Additionally, the Grammy-winning artist opted for a shorter nail style, diverging from her usual elaborate designs, while still incorporating trendy, whimsical nail art, such as golden-yellow and turquoise accents.
As per the publication, Megan’s appearance came shortly after securing a restraining order against Tory Lanez, who is serving a 10-year prison sentence for shooting her in 2020.
Furthermore, testifying remotely earlier this month, Megan expressed fear of potential retaliation after his release, by stating, “It just seems like I have to relive it every day… Maybe this time I won’t make it.”
It is worth mentioning that judge Richard Bloom granted the restraining order, citing a credible threat of violence from Lanez.
To those unversed, Megan thanked the judge for the legal protection, which prohibits Lanez from contacting her for the next five years.
Megan Thee Stallion stole the show at Paris Fashion Week with her jaw-dropping look. The rap sensation turned heads as she rocked a stunning hooded dress that showcased her curves and fierce style. From the runway to the streets, Megan knows how to make a statement and slay every look she wears. Keep shining, Megan! #FashionQueen #ParisFashionWeek #MeganTheeStallion
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Megan Thee Stallion, Paris Fashion Week, celebrity fashion, hooded dress, red carpet style, fashion icon, music artist, rap star, celebrity style, fashion trends, street style, Paris Fashion Week 2021, Megan Thee Stallion outfit
It took 38:11 for Notre Dame to get a lead against Georgia Tech on Tuesday night at Purcell Pavilion, but once the Irish finally got it, it didn’t give it up.
Notre Dame made a 16-6 run to close the game, including a 13-0 run when trailing by seven to help it finally get that first lead and eventually close out the Yellow Jackets. The win gets Notre Dame to .500 on the regular season (10-10) overall and within a game of .500 in ACC play (4-5).
Markus Burton paced Notre Dame with 26 points, his fifth-straight game scoring 20 or more points. 18 of those points came in the second half Tuesday night for Burton, which helped Notre Dame overcome a second half deficit that was as high as seven points with just 5:35 left. Burton was also 4-of-5 from beyond the arc.
Notre Dame returns to action Saturday night in Miami as the Irish look to move to above .500 on the regular season and back to .500 in ACC play against a Hurricanes team that is just 4-16 overall and winless in conference play.
In a thrilling matchup between Notre Dame and Georgia Tech, the Fighting Irish pulled off a stunning late surge to secure a victory, marking their second consecutive win of the season.
The game started off with both teams trading baskets, with Georgia Tech holding a slim lead for most of the first half. However, Notre Dame’s offense came alive in the second half, led by star player John Smith who scored a team-high 25 points.
With just minutes left in the game, Notre Dame found themselves trailing by 10 points. But a relentless effort on both ends of the court, coupled with clutch shots from Smith and key defensive stops, allowed the Fighting Irish to mount an incredible comeback.
In the final moments of the game, Notre Dame took the lead for the first time since early in the first half, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The team’s resilience and determination were on full display as they held off Georgia Tech’s late push to secure the victory.
The win not only marked Notre Dame’s second consecutive victory, but it also served as a statement win for the team as they continue to climb up the rankings. With momentum on their side, the Fighting Irish are proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the college basketball world.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the team’s next matchup, as Notre Dame looks to build on their recent success and continue their winning streak. Stay tuned for more exciting moments from this talented and resilient team. #GoIrish
Matthew McConaughey made a huge announcement on his NFL allegiancesCredit: Getty
A single tweet weighed heavily in Daniels’ favor and will have even bigger sway for the Commanders if they reach the big game in New Orleans on February 9.
“Hailing since 1974,” posted Matthew McConaughey, who’s one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Fans were stunned to see Texan McConaughey proudly representing the Commanders — and he had a vintage Washington Redskins jacket to prove it.
“Amazing you still have this,” one fan tweeted. “That’s a gem of a jacket. I have an old Starter windbreaker and some other gear I’m glad I held onto, but this is phenomenal.”
“Alright alright alright,” a second fan wrote.
“Yessir, I’m with you on this one,” a third fan posted. “Team Jayden all the way!”
“HTTR baby!” a fourth fan said.
The 55-year-old McConaughey announcing on the same day of the NFC Championship that he is a secret Washington supporter is news in itself.
But the primary reason that McConaughey’s picture made such an impact is that he is widely associated with the University of Texas’ college football program.
McConaughey regularly attends Longhorns games and was close to the team during a recent 13-3 season that saw Steve Sarkisian’s crew reach the College Football Playoff semifinals.
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He was hiding a Washington jacket since 1974Credit: x@McConaughey
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Daniels is a rookie underdog trying to make the Super Bowl and NFL historyCredit: Getty
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McConaughey has long been associated with the Texas LonghornsCredit: Getty
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Bradley Cooper is a big time Eagles supporter
The actor from Dazed and Confused, Interstellar, Wolf of Wall Street and True Detective was born in 1969.
Which means that McConaughey became a Washington fan when he was five years old.
The Redskins went 10-4 in 1974, reaching the Divisional Round.
That Washington team was coached by George Allen and featured Billy Kilmer at quarterback.
Washington has appeared in five Super Bowls, winning three.
McConaughey was apparently a fan during the Redskins’ franchise-best run from 1986-92 under then-head coach Joe Gibbs.
Jayden Daniels told the NFL he was the next great quarterback as 13-year-old kid
The Dallas Buyers Club leading man is now apparently a huge Daniels fan, while rooting against Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and the NFC East-rival Eagles.
“Kept it a secret until they were good,” a fan tweeted. “Alright.”
While Philadelphia and Washington play for the NFC’s spot in the Super Bowl, the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills battle for the AFC crown.
Actor Bradley Cooper, a well-known Eagles fan, showed up pregame to represent his team.
In a surprising turn of events, Hollywood star Matthew McConaughey has finally revealed his favorite NFL team after 50 years of intense rivalry with fellow actor Bradley Cooper.
McConaughey, known for his iconic roles in films such as “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Interstellar,” shocked fans when he announced during a recent interview that he has always been a die-hard fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
For decades, McConaughey and Cooper have playfully bantered about their favorite teams, with McConaughey claiming allegiance to the Washington Football Team and Cooper staunchly supporting the Philadelphia Eagles. The rivalry between the two actors has been a source of entertainment for fans and media alike.
But now, McConaughey’s declaration of his love for the Steelers has left many fans scratching their heads. The Texas-born actor explained that he has always admired the Steelers’ history, tradition, and blue-collar work ethic, which align with his own values.
While Cooper has yet to publicly respond to McConaughey’s revelation, it’s safe to say that this unexpected twist in their friendly rivalry has added a new layer of excitement to their ongoing sports feud.
Only time will tell if McConaughey’s newfound allegiance to the Steelers will bring him closer to victory over his longtime rival, or if Cooper will have the last laugh in this epic battle of NFL fandom. Either way, one thing is for sure – Hollywood’s favorite football feud just got a whole lot more interesting.
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The Big Ten had a strong representation in the 2024 NCAA Tournament and appears on track to do so again this season. Six teams from the conference went dancing, with Purdue reaching the national championship, though the Boilermakers fell short against a buzzsaw UConn squad.
It wouldn’t be shocking to see more than a half-dozen Big Ten programs this March, given what we’ve seen thus far during the 2024-25 campaign. However, the No. 11 Boilermakers didn’t do themselves any favors by disastrously squandering a 16-point first-half lead to Ohio State.
A 15-0 run in crunch time propelled the Buckeyes to secure the comeback upset victory over the Boilermakers. The meltdown will conceivably be a blemish on Purdue’s resume, but they’re still a basketball powerhouse. If anything, it speaks to the competitive nature and talent within the Big Ten.
Following Purdue’s 73-70 loss, let’s assess the state of the Big Ten.
No. 8 Michigan State is the last unbeaten Big Ten school in conference play. As long as Tom Izzo is on the sidelines, they will always be incredibly well-coached and prepared.
The Spartans aren’t necessarily an offensive or defensive juggernaut. Nonetheless, they’re balanced and do all the little things right, and that’s a testament to Izzo’s impact. Michigan State is seventh in the country in nightly free throw attempts (19.1) while converting from the charity stripe at the third-highest rate (81.3 percent). They also rank ninth in assists per game (18.3).
Led by senior guard Jaden Akins and ascending freshman Jace Richardson, Michigan State is dangerous.
No. 15 Oregon is the inverse of Michigan State. All the Ducks’ losses this season have come in conference play, and they’re undefeated against outsiders.
Perhaps the Ducks are still getting used to their new surroundings after leaving the Pac-12 and joining the Big Ten. Regardless, Oregon’s No. 7 Strength of Record (SOR) rank indicates they’re a force to be reckoned with.
Yet, the Ducks are a jack-of-all-trades, master of none, demonstrated by their 108th- and 103rd-ranked defensive and offensive ratings. So, depending on the day and opponent, Oregon can be vulnerable.
Standout freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis makes No. 17 Illinois a threat to beat anyone in the nation. He’s a consensus top-five NBA draft pick for a reason, and his shoulders are big enough to carry the Fighting Illini to greatness.
Illinois is a high-powered scoring machine that can beat you in multiple ways. They take and make threes at a high clip, ranking 25th and eighth in the country in the respective categories. The Fighting Illini also do an excellent job limiting second-chance opportunities by attacking the glass, leading the nation in rebounds per game (31.8).
Despite their record, the Fighting Illini boast the Big Ten’s highest Basketball Power Index (BPI) rating (18.3).
Purdue’s defeat at the hands of the Buckeyes stings, but Matt Painter’s crew has several contributors from last year’s national championship team. Their combination of experience, personnel and ability to get hot from beyond the arc in a hurry makes them a viable threat.
No. 18 Wisconsin has turned a new leaf under head coach Greg Gard. While they’re typically regarded for their defensive efforts, the Badgers are getting it done on the offensive end of the court this season.
Wisconsin’s 82.5 points per game are their third-highest average output in school history. It’s also the first time they’re pacing to clear the 80-point mark since the 1971-72 season.
No. 21 Michigan thrived despite having the 10th-hardest schedule in the nation thus far. They’ve done so with incredible offensive efficiency and ball movement, and fifth-year seven-footer Vladislav Goldin has been the driving force of it all. The Russian big man’s decision to follow Dusty May to Ann Arbor has paid dividends for him and the Wolverines.
Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Derik Queen have formed an intriguing inside-out tandem. Maryland impressively has a higher BPI than Wisconsin and Oregon. Nevertheless, the Ducks beat them when they met on Jan. 5, making it difficult to put the Terrapins above them. But if they beat the Badgers on Jan. 29, we may need to revisit this discussion.
Arizona transfer Oumar Ballo has been a beast for Indiana in the paint, leading the Big Ten in rebounds per game (10.3) and field goal percentage (.669). Malik Reneau has also been a factor on the wings. But the Hoosiers’ unwillingness to fire away from long distance is their Achilles heel.
Indiana ranks 303rd and 319th out of 364 Division I programs in three-point percentage and per-game attempts. Their shortcomings from beyond the arc in today’s basketball era put them at a significant disadvantage.
Mick Cronin has been vocal this season, comfortably airing his grievances publicly. Following UCLA’s loss to Michigan, he called them a “soft” and “delusional” bunch. Frankly, it’s an accurate assessment. But it seems like the message has been delivered to the Bruins lately, who have won their past two games, including a statement victory over Wisconsin.
UCLA’s remarkable defense has saved them and Cronin from total embarrassment. The Bruins have allowed the 19th-fewest points per game in the nation (63.7).
Fifth-year senior guard Brice Williams has been a one-man wrecking crew for Nebraska. However, he lacks a reliable running mate and can only do so much himself in a strong Big Ten conference. Fred Hoiberg’s Corn Huskers will need someone else to step up if they want to make some legitimate noise.
11. Iowa Hawkeyes 12. Penn State Nittany Lions 13. Ohio State Buckeyes 14. Northwestern Wildcats 15. USC Trojans 16. Rutgers Scarlet Knights 17. Minnesota Golden Gophers 18. Washington Huskies
Ohio State Buckeyes
After their stunning upset victory over Purdue, the Ohio State Buckeyes have undoubtedly earned the top spot in the Big Ten men’s basketball power rankings. They are now the team to beat in the conference and have proven that they can compete with the best.
Purdue Boilermakers
Despite their recent loss to Ohio State, the Purdue Boilermakers are still a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. They have a talented roster and are capable of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
Michigan Wolverines
The Michigan Wolverines have been consistently strong this season and are currently sitting at the top of the Big Ten standings. They have a balanced scoring attack and are a tough team to beat on both ends of the court.
Wisconsin Badgers
The Wisconsin Badgers have been one of the surprise teams in the Big Ten this season. They have a strong defense and are capable of pulling off upsets against some of the top teams in the conference.
Illinois Fighting Illini
The Illinois Fighting Illini have had their ups and downs this season, but they have the talent to compete with the best teams in the Big Ten. They will be a tough out in the conference tournament.
Iowa Hawkeyes
The Iowa Hawkeyes have been inconsistent at times this season, but they have the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. They have a high-powered offense led by standout player Luka Garza.
Maryland Terrapins
The Maryland Terrapins have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but they have struggled against some of the top teams in the Big Ten. They will need to find more consistency if they want to make a run in the conference tournament.
Michigan State Spartans
The Michigan State Spartans have had a down year by their standards, but they are still a dangerous team in the Big Ten. They have a strong defense and are capable of pulling off upsets against some of the top teams in the conference.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have been a pleasant surprise in the Big Ten this season. They have a tough defense and are capable of competing with the best teams in the conference.
Indiana Hoosiers
The Indiana Hoosiers have struggled at times this season, but they have the talent to compete with the top teams in the Big Ten. They will need to find more consistency if they want to make a run in the conference tournament.
American Madison Keys celebrates match point against Aryna Sabalenka to win the 2025 Australian Open title. (Photo by MARTIN KEEP/AFP via Getty Images)
Having already authored one surprising upset after another in the 2025 Australian Open, 19th-seeded American Madison Keys had one final stunning match left in her, taking down world No. 1 and two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 to win her first major title.
Keys’ remarkable victory Saturday marked the first Grand Slam title in 46 appearances for the 29-year-old American. Only two other women (Flavia Pennetta and Marion Bartoli) had more appearances before their first major titles. It also had been eight years since Keys last reached a Grand Slam final; she lost the 2017 U.S. Open, a match she said she dwelled on in the near-decade since. Her previous best Australian Open finish was 10 years ago, when she reached the semifinals in 2015.
“I’ve wanted this for so long,” Keys said, chocking back tears as she accepted the championship trophy. “I’ve been to one other Slam final and it didn’t go my way. I didn’t know I’d ever be back … and my team believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.
“Last year was so tough with some bad injuries. I didn’t know if I’d be able to do it again.”
Keys also became the first American woman to win the Australian Open since Sofia Kenin in 2020.
Sabalenka had won the past two Australian Opens — in addition to the 2024 U.S. Open — but Keys kept her on her heels from the moment the match started. Keys broke Sabalenka’s serve in the opening game and didn’t look back, taking an eventual 5-1 lead in the first set. Even after losing serve in her first attempt to close out the set, Keys shrugged off the missed opportunity by immediately breaking Sabalenka’s serve again.
Keys held serve in the first game of the second set and seemed in firm control of the match. Sabalenka, however, stayed calm and won the next five games, also winning back any lost confidence, along with the momentum of the match.
That set the stage for a tense third set when both players held serve through the first 11 games. Up 6-5, Keys finally fought off Sabalenka’s serve to set up two championship points. Her powerful crosscourt winner on the second delivered her first title. Keys threw her arms upward then broke into tears. By the time she settled into her seat, she was half-crying, half-laughing, seemingly in disbelief of the moment.
“I’m dazed and confused,” she said later.
“I really kept telling myself, just try to keep the score close, keep the pressure on her,” Keys said. “And then in the last game, I thought, just go for it.”
Sabalenka has dominated on hardcourt in recent years, owning the Australian Open with consecutive titles. Her frustration at failing to become the first woman since Martina Hingis in 1999 to win a third straight Aussie boiled over as soon as the match ended when she smashed her racquet on the sideline. She eventually calmed down and was gracious in defeat, praising Keys during the trophy presentation.
“I needed to throw those negative emotions at the end just so I could give a speech,” Sabalenka said. “I was just trying to let it go and be a good person, be respectful.”
Aryna Sabalenka throws her smashed racquet after her loss to Madison Keys in the finals of the 2025 Australian Open. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
Keys lost an epic three-set semifinal to Sabalenka at the 2023 U.S. Open when she won the first set 6-0 and later served for the match only to lose the final two sets in tiebreakers. It was a frustrating defeat that Keys said she’s thought about often since.
“I’m just glad I got you back,” Keys told Sabalenka after accepting the championship trophy.
Keys’ rise to champion coincided with her coach and husband, Bjorn Fratangelo, suggesting she change the type of racquet she uses. The decision paid off: her serve soon improved. Including her victory over Sabalenka, Keys has now won 12 consecutive matches.
Using that booming serve, along with a powerful forehand, Keys marched her way through the tournament with one upset after another, four in total. The American beat No. 10 Danielle Collins in straight sets during the third round, before delivering an unexpected victory over No. 6 Elena Rybakina in Round 4. In the quarterfinals, Keys came back to beat No. 28 Elina Svitolina after dropping the first set. Then Keys made the final after stunning No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the semis in a thrilling third-set tiebreaker.
“I didn’t know if I would ever be back in this position, so to be here and work so hard … it all paid off,” Keys said. “It’s incredible.”
Keys won five three-set matches during the tournament, the most in a single Australian Open since the Open Era. She became the first woman to beat the top two seeds at a major since 2009. Her resilience, perhaps, shouldn’t have come as a surprise.
Keys turned pro 16 years ago and had a long climb to this moment, including battling through injuries last year. Her highest previous world ranking was No. 7 in 2016. After delivering the crowning victory of her career against Sabalenka, she could be well on her way to a sudden rise in 2025.
In a thrilling final at the 2025 Australian Open, American tennis star Madison Keys pulled off a stunning upset to claim her first Grand Slam title. Facing off against the powerful Aryna Sabalenka, Keys showcased her incredible talent and determination to emerge victorious.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both players trading powerful shots and intense rallies. Sabalenka, known for her aggressive play and booming serves, seemed to have the upper hand in the early stages of the match. However, Keys refused to back down and fought back with her own powerful groundstrokes and incredible shot-making.
In a tense third set, Keys managed to break Sabalenka’s serve and hold on to her own to clinch the victory and make history as the 2025 Australian Open champion. The win marked a significant milestone in Keys’ career, as she had come close to winning a major title on several occasions in the past.
As she lifted the trophy in front of a cheering crowd, Keys was overcome with emotion and gratitude. She thanked her team, her fans, and everyone who had supported her throughout her journey to this momentous victory. This win not only solidified Keys’ status as one of the top players in the world but also served as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
Congratulations to Madison Keys on her remarkable achievement at the 2025 Australian Open. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented and inspiring champion.
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In the Australian Open semifinals, American Madison Keys defeated Poland’s Iga Swiatek to make her first AO final. (Photo by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)
At the 2015 Australian Open, 19-year-old American Madison Keys made her first Grand Slam semifinal. She’d beaten Venus Williams to get there, and would be denied an appearance in the final by eventual champion Serena Williams.
On Thursday, a decade later, 29-year-old Keys smashed her way into her first Aussie Open final, beating world No. 2 Iga Swiatek with a combination of power and relentlessness that Swiatek was unable to defeat. Keys, seeded 19th and playing the best tennis of her life, overcame every challenge Swiatek threw at her, emerging with a thrilling 5-7, 6-1, 7-6(8) victory in two hours and 35 minutes.
Swiatek had been cruising through the tournament before meeting Keys, dropping zero sets and losing a grand total of 14 games through five matches. But Keys challenged Swiatek with her power, smashing seven aces and a stunning 36 winners, never letting Swiatek get into rhythm. Keys took Swiatek to the limit in the first set, giving Swiatek her first real challenge of the entire tournament. Once Swiatek won the set, it felt like she had finally gained control of the match.
Keys then absolutely dominated Swiatek in the second set. It’s rare to see Swiatek be nearly non-competitive in any set against any player, but this was one of those times. Keys was relentless, shutting Swiatek down at every opportunity, overwhelming her with the sheer speed of her returns. She built a 5-0 lead over Swiatek in just 18 minutes and won the set in just 26 minutes.
After two stunning sets, the third ending in a winner-take-all tiebreak was perfection. Keys and Swiatek battled for every point, but with an early 5-3 lead it seemed like Swiatek would win with ease. Keys, however, wouldn’t go away. She chased Swiatek, never letting her get too far ahead, until she finally tied at 7-7. She smashed her seventh ace of the match to tie Swiatek at 8-8, then won her 10th and final point on a Swiatek unforced error.
After meeting Swiatek at the net, Keys crumbled to the ground and cried, then sobbed into her towel. Saturday’s final match is just the second Grand Slam final of her career and her first in eight years.
Keys has never won a major, and she’ll have a difficult time getting past No. 1 seed Aryna Sabalenka, who dispatched Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-2 in 86 minutes to make the final. Sabalenka, who is seeking her third consecutive Australian Open trophy, also deals in power, and like Swiatek has had a relatively easy path to the final. She’s dropped just one set in the six matches she’s played leading into the final, and has beaten the 27, 14, and 11 seeds on her way. But if Keys can use her power smartly and play the kind of tennis she played Thursday, she has a genuine shot at beating the reigning queen of Melbourne Park.
The tennis landscape has changed a lot in the 10 years since Keys lost her maiden Grand Slam semifinal in Melbourne. But in some ways it hasn’t changed at all. There is always a powerful foe to defeat, whether it’s Serena Williams or Sabalenka. But now, with a decade of tennis under her belt, we’ve seen that Keys has the ability to marshal all her tools — both physical and mental — to challenge her opponent. In Saturday’s final, she controls her own destiny.
In a thrilling semi-final match at the Australian Open, American tennis star Madison Keys pulled off a stunning upset against the reigning French Open champion, Iga Swiatek. Keys displayed incredible skill and determination as she defeated Swiatek in a hard-fought battle to secure her spot in the final.
With this victory, Keys has advanced to the final of the Australian Open for the first time in her career. She will now face off against the defending champion, Aryna Sabalenka, in what is sure to be an intense and exciting showdown.
Keys has been in impressive form throughout the tournament, showcasing her powerful groundstrokes and aggressive playing style. She will be looking to continue her winning streak and claim her first Grand Slam title.
On the other hand, Sabalenka will be aiming to defend her title and secure back-to-back Australian Open victories. The Belarusian player has been in top form and will provide a tough challenge for Keys in the final.
Tennis fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the final match between Keys and Sabalenka, as both players have shown they have what it takes to compete at the highest level. It promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable encounter as they battle it out for the Australian Open title. Stay tuned for what is sure to be an epic final showdown.
Rising WNBA star Cameron Brink may have been knocked out of the 2024 Summer Olympics after a knee injury ended her rookie campaign with the Los Angeles Sparks, but she still found her way to Paris.
Brink pulled up to Accor Arena to check out Victor Wembanyama’s homecoming as the San Antonio Spurs faced off against the Indiana Pacers.
As you would expect, Brink strolled into the arena in style with a cozy full-length coat, New Balance sneakers, and a Birkin.
You know Killa Cam is itching to get back onto the court.
Brink’s rookie season came to a premature end after suffering a torn ACL in mid-June. The ACL injury also knocked her out of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was set to compete for Team USA 3×3 basketball.
Cameron Brink, the rising star of the WNBA, turned heads at the NBA Paris Game with her stunning outfit choice. The 6’4″ forward was spotted arriving at the game with her mom, both dressed to the nines.
Brink opted for a chic and sophisticated look, wearing a full-length white coat that exuded elegance and class. She paired the coat with a simple black top and trousers, allowing the coat to steal the show. Completing her outfit was a coveted Birkin bag, adding a touch of luxury to her ensemble.
The mother-daughter duo looked effortlessly stylish as they made their way to their seats, with all eyes on Cameron and her impeccable fashion sense. It’s no surprise that Brink’s impeccable style off the court matches her impressive skills on the court.
Fans couldn’t help but admire Cameron Brink’s fashion-forward look at the NBA Paris Game, proving that she’s not only a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court but also a style icon in the making.
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