NEW YORK – Mexican tennis player Renata Zarazúa achieved a historic upset at the US Open on Tuesday, defeating American Madison Keys in the first round. The victory marks a meaningful milestone for Mexican tennis, a sport that has lacked prominent international figures in recent decades.
Zarazúa’s success builds upon a family legacy in Mexican tennis. Her grandmother, Rosario Zarazúa, and father, Alejandro Zarazúa, were both players. Her uncle, Vicente Zarazúa, enjoyed a distinguished career in the 1960s and 70s, winning medals at the Pan American Games, competing in the 1968 Olympic Games, and representing Mexico in the Davis Cup.
Following her win against Keys, Zarazúa was asked about her dedication to the sport, responding, “find a way of playing tennis.” This encapsulates her unwavering commitment.
The win over Keys,currently ranked 17th in the world,is a major breakthrough for Zarazúa and a source of national pride. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the achievement during a press conference on Tuesday, stating, “He beat the American Madison Keys in the first round of the US Open, congratulations.”
Zarazúa will continue her US Open journey on Wednesday,facing French player Diane Parry in the second round.Zarazúa has previously defeated Parry in both of their prior encounters. irrespective of the outcome of the next match, Zarazúa has already cemented her place in the history of Mexican tennis. The Zarazúa family’s contributions to the sport in Mexico span generations, with Vicente Zarazúa considered a pioneer, reaching a career-high ranking of 19 in the world in 1968.