Diana Shnaider Battles Madison Keys in Tense Brisbane International Clash
Brisbane, 8 January 2026 – Russian tennis sensation Diana Shnaider is locked in a gripping third-round encounter with American veteran Madison Keys at the Brisbane International. The match, held on Show Court 1, stands at one set apiece, with Shnaider winning the first set 7-6 (7-5) and Keys levelling in the second 6-7 (5-7). Shnaider, currently ranked 21st in the world, has shown resilience in her early rounds, defeating Anastasia Potapova 6-1, 6-3 in the second round after receiving a bye in the first.
Match Highlights
Shnaider entered the tournament as a strong contender, having reached the semi-finals at the Ningbo Open in October 2025 and securing a WTA title in Monterrey earlier that year. Her aggressive baseline play and powerful forehand have been key in her recent successes, including a career-high ranking of 11 achieved in May 2025. Against Keys, seeded fifth, Shnaider has demonstrated her ability to compete at the highest level, despite the match being suspended due to the ongoing nature of the event. Keys, a former world No. 7, brings experience from her 2024 Olympic silver medal in doubles and consistent performances on hard courts.
Key Facts / Stats
| Statistic | Diana Shnaider | Madison Keys |
|---|---|---|
| Current WTA Ranking | 21 | 5 |
| Career Singles Titles | 5 | 6 |
| 2025 Singles Win-Loss | 28-25 | 25-18 |
| Career Prize Money | A$4,222,152 | A$10,500,000+ |
| Age | 21 | 30 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diana Shnaider’s playing style?
Shnaider is known for her aggressive baseline play, strong forehand, and adaptability across surfaces, including hard, clay, and grass courts. She plays left-handed with a two-handed backhand.
Has Shnaider won any Grand Slam titles?
As of January 2026, Shnaider has not won a Grand Slam singles title, but she reached the fourth round at the 2024 US Open and the third round at the 2025 Australian Open.
What are Shnaider’s notable achievements in 2025?
In 2025, Shnaider won the Monterrey Open in singles and secured doubles titles at Brisbane and Miami with partner Mirra Andreeva, finishing the year in the top 25.