The young American talent Madison Keys is a player many expect great things from in the next few years, some even dubbing her the “star of the future”. After winning her first WTA title in Eastbourne last year, Keys further established herself as a solid player earlier in 2015 by reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open. Prior to the event, Keys announced Lindsay Davenport as her new coach – a factor that helped her to defeat three seeded players including the reigning Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, and seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in a tough three-set match. Although losing out to Serena Williams in the final four, she was given high praise by her conqueror, with Williams claiming it “was an honor (…) to play someone who will be number 1 in the future.”

Keys arrived for the Eastbourne tournament this year in decent form; a third round appearance at the French Open was an improvement over her first round appearance the year before, and she had two solid weeks of grass court preparation. However, in her first match against Swiss youngster Belinda Bencic she struggled to find her form, having a first serve percentage of only 56 percent and winning a mere 24 percent of return points to find herself on the receiving end of a 52-minute straight sets loss. She later suggested post-match that the disappointing performance was due to a recent bout of flu, whilst adding “It is always tough playing your first match of grass”.

As she looks towards the upcoming Wimbledon tournament, Keys can take faith in the fact that her game style works best on the fast courts that grass produces. Her one title has come on the surface which she won by playing offensive, all-out tennis which is where she is at her best. If she manages to keep her serve, often considered her best weapon, consistent and retain power behind her groundstrokes she should be able to challenge the best on the green courts of London.

Keys’ draw for Wimbledon has set up an enticing possible third round encounter with Canadian Eugenie Bouchard, a finalist in last year’s Championships. Given Bouchard’s recent slump and retirement with abdominal injury at Eastbourne, Keys stands a strong chance of coming through. Also in her quarter of the draw is defending champion Petra Kvitova; their head to head is 1-1 but Keys’ win came at a Grand Slam. Kvitova in the quarterfinals on grass would be an incredibly difficult opponent, and should she make it through the Czech she would potentially face another dangerous rival in world number three Simona Halep.

Keys has a great future ahead of her, one which will not be only defined by these Wimbledon championships. However, a round of 16 appearance or better would be impressive work for the American rising star.