Madison Keys abandons WTA Finals due to viral illness and gives way to Alexandrova against Rybakina in Riyadh
Ekaterina Alexandrova will take Madison Keys’ place in the final match of the group stage of the WTA Finals, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Wednesday (5). The American withdrew from the tournament due to a viral illness that struck her hours before her clash against Elena Rybakina, on Center Court. The substitution occurs because the first substitute, Mirra Andreeva, was not fit to play. The event, which brings together the eight best tennis players of the year, continues with adjustments to the schedule to accommodate the change.
Keys’ decision directly impacts Group A, where Rybakina has already secured the lead and a place in the semifinals. Alexandrova, 30 years old and ranked 21st in the world, will make her debut at the WTA Finals. Russian-born Kazakh Rybakina, currently number 5, is looking to maintain her momentum after previous victories in the tournament.
- Departure scheduled for the central court at 2pm (local time).
- Keys has accumulated two defeats in the group stage so far.
- Alexandrova arrives with good recent performance in WTA tournaments.
Madison Keys’ trajectory in the tournament
Madison Keys, 30, entered the WTA Finals as one of the favorites after a solid year, with a title in Strasbourg and semi-finals in other events. The American,Ranked in 6th place, she won just one set in the first two rounds of the group stage, against Jessica Pegula and Iga Swiatek. His premature departure ends his participation without advancing to the semifinals.
The health problem arose suddenly, according to the tournament’s official statement. Keys, who had dealt with injuries in the past, opted for precaution to avoid worsening. The tennis player expressed disappointment in a short note, but prioritized full recovery.
Ekaterina Alexandrova debuts at the WTA Finals
Ekaterina Alexandrova, second reserve of the event, enters the scene with experience in high-level duels, but without a history in the WTA Finals. The 30-year-old Russian won the title in Seoul this year and has reached quarters in other Grand Slams. His entry turns the game into an opportunity to gain momentum against an already ranked opponent.
Rybakina, in turn, has no pressure in the match, as her place is assured. The confrontation serves as a test for Alexandrova on a new stage. The Russian tennis player highlighted in recent interviews her physical preparation for decisive moments.
The WTA Finals distributes prizes in excess of US$15 million, with the winner receiving around US$2 million. Alexandrova, when replacing Keys, receives the full score for the match, regardless of the result.
Confrontation between Alexandrova and Rybakina
Elena Rybakina leads Group A with two wins in two matches, totaling six sets won. The 25-year-old Kazakh won Wimbledon in 2022 and has achieved 80% on hard courts this year.node. Her aggressive style, with powerful serves, makes her a favorite in the match.
Alexandrova, known for her heavy forehand, has a balanced record against Rybakina: two wins in four meetings. The previous duels took place in 2021 and 2023, with tight scores. The reserve seeks to surprise in its first appearance in the elite tournament.
- Rybakina: 42 aces in the group stage so far.
- Alexandrova: 65% points gained on first serve in 2025.
- Game with no influence on the rankings, but valuable for statistics.
WTA Finals booking history
Reservations have already changed directions in past editions of the tournament. In 2023, a similar substitution allowed an unranked tennis player to advance unexpectedly. Andreeva, the 17-year-old first reserve, refused entry due to accumulated fatigue from youth and professional tournaments.
The WTA Finals committee prioritizes the health of athletes in decisions like this. Alexandrova, with a stable ranking in the top 25, was the logical choice among those available. The organization adjusted the calendar without major delays.
Recovery and next steps for Keys
Madison Keys is now focusing on rehabilitation from the viral disease, which could affect her 2026 schedule. The American plans to return in preparatory events for the Australian Open, in January. Your technician has confirmed that initial tests do not indicate serious complications.
The tennis player, who reached the top 5 in 2016, aims to compete in all the Grand Slams next year. The forced break allows for adjustments in physical training. Fans and rivals sent messages of support via social media.
Keys has accumulated US$1.2 million in winnings at the WTA Finals throughout her career, despite her early exit from this edition.
