WTA star Madison Keys’ journey to the 2025 Australian Open win wasn’t a solo endeavor. Her path paved by sweat and determination, witnessed the support of a team that never stopped believing in her. Among the team’s quiet members was her physiotherapist, someone behind the scenes but never far from Keys’ heart. As the WTA number seven stepped on her career’s biggest landmark, her physiotherapist unfolded her thoughts. Delighted with thoughts, Keys also chimed in. So, what happened when emotions took over the stands?
Keys started her 2025 season with a great spirit. She reached the ASB Classic’s quarterfinals and won the Adelaide International tournament just before clinching her maiden Grand Slam trophy in Melbourne. Keys’ journey so far sheds light on her incredible team featuring her coach and husband Bjorn Frantngelo. However, with Fratangelo, another silent pillar of Keys’ strength remained in her physiotherapist, Kayla Fujimoto Epperson. An alum of Indiana University, Epperson has worked with Keys for several years. While she is present at Keys’ tournaments as her physio, she cheers directly for the WTA star from the gallery. Recently, this physiotherapist shared a clip that revealed her pride and admiration for Keys.
Epperson took to her official IG platform to share a reel that featured her emotional tears when Keys overpowered Pegula to win the Adelaide Open title this season. Next, Epperson was captured with tears again when the American athlete bagged her debut Major title. Her clip showed how firmly she stood by Fratangelo to support Keys and her emotions even made the WTA star surprised. “OMG, are you crying?” Keys said to Epperson in Adelaide.
The esteemed physiotherapist hugged her and said, “Yes, yes, I am.” Their touching bond delighted the fraternity. Sharing the clip, Epperson jokingly captioned it, “Who’s cutting onions in here?” However, Keys was quick to respond here. “We love tears,” she commented with a red heart emoji, highlighting how much this support meant to her.
A post shared by Kayla Fujimoto Epperson, DPT, CSCS (@theathleteconnection)
Keys is vocal about her team’s contribution to her success. After lifting the Australian Open trophy, this WTA number seven paid a great tribute to her team members for not losing their faith in her potential. “I’ve wanted this for so long. I’ve been in one other Grand Slam final and it didn’t go my way. I didn’t know if I’d be able to get back to this position, to try to win a trophy again, and my team believed in me every step of the way,” Keys said.
However, it is not just Keys who felt overwhelmed by her team’s support. Her physiotherapist, Kayla Fujimoto Epperson, shared a heartwarming post thanking the WTA star for bringing the team an opportunity to experience the joy of a Grand Slam victory. Epperson’s words were like a statement of the team’s admiration for Madison Keys.
Madison Keys’ physiotherapist penned a heartwarming social media post for the WTA star
When Keys won her debut Grand Slam title in Melbourne, her team was over the moon with happiness. Keys’ physiotherapist shared a heartwarming post featuring their team bonding moments from Melbourne. Along with the post, Epperson’s words truly touched everyone’s hearts. Reflecting on how Keys’ brilliance brought pride to her whole team, Epperson wrote, “Madi, you couldn’t be more worthy or deserving of all the good things in life. We love you. Thanks for taking us along for the ride.” She also revealed their team’s motto: “This team leads with love and trust in one another. That’s when the good stuff happens.” Epperson’s words echoed how each person on the WTA star’s team contributed to her success and how they made it possible together.
Madison Keys’ comment on her physiotherapist Epperson’s emotional post reflects the relationships built on shared passion. Despite professional collaboration, Keys and Epperson transcended barriers and became partners on the same journey. Their respect for each other showcases that some relationships don’t need any tagline but commitment to evolve.
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