Madison Keys, the American tennis star, experienced an early exit from the Italian Open. She was defeated in the Round of 32 by Nikola Bartunkova, a Czech Republic player, in a three-set match, 3-6, 6-1, 4-6.
Keys Joins Trophee Clarins After Illness
Keys’ play on European clay courts leading up to the French Open has been inconsistent. She withdrew from the Mutua Madrid Open after becoming violently ill. It took her several days to recover and resume training.
Due to her limited play on red clay this spring, Keys is making a surprising decision.
She will be the top seed in next week’s WTA 125 Paris Challenger event called Trophee Clarins. The event is played on outdoor clay courts in the middle of Bois de Boulogne.
Strong Lineup for Challenger Event
Keys is joined in the draw by other recognisable names from the WTA Tour. These include Leylah Fernandez, Maya Joint, McCartney Kessler and Katie Boulter, who is the defending champion. Emma Navarro and Charleston Open finalist Yulia Starodubtseva are also participating.
All these players were ousted earlier than expected from the Italian Open.
The lineup is outstanding for a 125 event. The players share the same goal: to build momentum and secure match wins in Paris before Roland Garros begins later this month.
Focus on Paris
The Italian Open will be featured on Tennis Channel during the week of May 11-17. Fans will also be watching the Trophee Clarins action.