Madison Keys, Bjorn Fratangelo take partnership to new arena

Madison Keys doesn’t play much doubles.

In fact, the last time the American standout competed in the women’s event at the US Open was back in 2015.

The streak of her not signing up for any type of team play likely would’ve continued at the 2021 version of the event. However, she ran into a potential partner that proved to be quite persuasive: her boyfriend, Bjorn Fratangelo.

The couple was granted a wild card into the mixed doubles draw at this year’s tournament, marking a first for them as far as playing together professionally goes. Former world No. 99 Fratangelo isn’t exactly known for his doubles prowess, either, but thought the two of them taking the court together at a Grand Slam event would be special.

“We had to do it once. If we never do it again, fine. I would like to, though,” Fratangelo said in an interview with ATPTour.com. "It was just to have some fun on court with me and play and try to get a win and if not, just have an hour of laughs and fun. It’s good for everybody.”

Keys said she was initially resistant to the idea, before Fratangelo “finally wore me down.”

The duo faced doubles specialists Marcelo Demoliner and Ellen Perez in the opening round, falling in straight sets. Though the couple didn’t get the win, the experience of playing together in a major event is one they expect to cherish.

“To be able to have a moment on court together I think is definitely something that is going to stick in my mind,” Keys said in the interview.