Match of the Day: Madison Keys vs. Samantha Stosur, Brisbane

It’s hard to believe at 24, Madison Keys is a seasoned veteran. Having turned pro when she was 14, Keys is no newcomer, and hoping to finally piece all her athletic gifts together in her 11th year on tour. Keys cruised by Marie Bouzkova, 6-3, 6-2, in her Brisbane opener and will now face 21-year WTA veteran Samantha Stosur in the second round.

Stosur shocked Angelique Kerber, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (4), to begin her season, and hit five aces to raise $1,000 for Australia’s fire relief efforts. Unfortunately for the Australian, Keys has conceded just ten aces in her last eight matches dating back to September.

Stosur is 3-0 against Keys and most recently defeated her in three sets at the American's home tournament in Miami last year. Keys will hope to return the favor on Wednesday (late Tuesday night in the U.S.). Both of Stosur’s other victories came in 2013, so we’ll soon find out if the lopsided record is just a fluke, or something more serious. Keys should have the firepower to slow down Stosur’s forehand, albeit one of the heaviest to ever grace the women’s game.

Both players hold serve at a higher rate than most, so any break chances will be crucial. Keys should be hungry to finally defeat the 2011 US Open champion, and advance to a potential quarterfinal matchup with fellow American Danielle Collins.

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