Keys claims Stanford crown

Madison Keys has returned to the winner’s circle after a victory over fellow American CoCo Vandeweghe in the WTA final in Stanford.

Keys, the third seed, beat the sixth-seeded Vandeweghe 7-6(4) 6-4 to win her third career WTA title.

Keys arrived at the Californian event completely bereft of form, just 5-7 on the season as she struggled to regain her momentum following wrist surgery earlier in 2017.

She began the year ranked eighth but had since slipped to 21st.

Yet the big-hitting 22-year-old turned a corner in Stanford this week, straight-setting her last three opponents to emerge a winner.

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Her 6-3 6-2 thumping of reigning Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza was especially impressive.

“I know it’s really special for CoCo and I to have a home crowd and have all of you guys behind us and supporting us. so I know we both really appreciate that,” Keys said to the packed Stadium crowd.

“Thanks to my team. I know it hasn’t been the easiest the last couple of months, but I know this means a lot to me and it also means a lot to you guys, so thank you for everything.”