Madison Keys staged a remarkable comeback, saving multiple match points to defeat Anna Bondar 5-7, 6-4, 7-6 (5) in a grueling second-round match at the U.S. Open on September 3, 2026. The victory propels Keys into the third round, where she is set to face China's Qinwen Zheng.

The match, lasting nearly three hours on Court 17, saw Keys facing significant adversity, trailing by two breaks in the final set and facing several match points. The crowd, initially subdued, grew increasingly vocal as Keys battled back, ultimately securing her spot in the next round.

"Yeah, that was something, huh?" Keys said after the match. "No stress, though. We all knew I had it, right?" The American expressed gratitude for the home crowd's support, stating, "You guys got me through that match, and I’m so grateful. I love playing here. It literally gives me chills."

This marks the fifth time since the start of 2025 that Keys has won a match after facing a match point, and the first time she has achieved this feat at the U.S. Open, where she made her Grand Slam debut in 2011. Moments before her improbable victory, with Keys down 5-2 in the final set, the outcome seemed uncertain.

The tide began to turn on match point, with Bondar making errors on multiple opportunities. During one crucial point, Keys managed a winner despite a mis-hit that struck the frame of her racket. She then saved the final two match points with powerful forehands, including one that narrowly landed on the baseline, to win three consecutive games.

In the deciding tiebreaker, Keys erased a 5-3 deficit by winning the final seven points of the match. The stadium erupted as Keys clinched the victory, her emotional reaction reflecting the dramatic nature of her comeback. She was seen screaming, pumping her fist, and holding her face in disbelief and celebration.

Keys, a former U.S. Open finalist, has consistently shown resilience. Her ability to overcome daunting situations in high-pressure matches has become a hallmark of her career. The win ensures her continued participation in the prestigious tournament, underscoring her determination and fighting spirit on the court.