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The enthusiasm of the fans is reaching feverish levels as the Australian Open 2021 inches ever closer. The qualifiers have concluded, and in three weeks, fans will be watching the first Grand Slam of the new season. However, there is unfortunate news to accompany this excitement, as one of the key players will not be able to take part in it.

Former World No.7 Madison Keys has tested positive for COVID-19 just before the Australian Open 2021. The American player was about to fly to Australia when she found out about the test results. She informed the fans about it via a Twitter post.

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“Hi everyone. I wanted to let you know that I unfortunately tested positive for Covid-19 before I was supposed to fly to Australia. I’m very disappointed to not be able to play in the coming weeks after training hard in the off-season and knowing Tennis Australia and the tours did so much to make these events happen,” tweeted the 25-year-old player.

She revealed that she worked quite hard for the Grand Slam, and so it’s a very disappointing, and indeed heartbreaking, moment for her. In the tweet, she also praised Tennis Australia for its efforts in organizing the Grand Slam during such difficult times.

“Look forward to being back on tour next month”- Madison Keys on her return after the Australian Open 2021

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In the tweet, Keys also emphasized that she was self-isolating at her home and would be following all the precautions. She also announced that she would most probably be back on the court next month.

“I am self-isolating at home and will continue to follow all the necessary health precautions. I look forward to being back on tour next month,” added the US Open 2017 runner up.

She also thanked all her fans for their support and wished for their good health.

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“Thank you all for your support. Stay healthy and safe,” concluded Keys.

It is surely a disheartening moment for Keys. To begin her season on such a note is hardly ideal, and it will disappoint her to no end. However, she will hopefully recover soon and be back on the tour, hunting for more titles by next month.